Children
enjoy travel and on short trips there are usually few problems.
There are a few tips to remember in relation to taking children
abroad.
SELF-CARE
Essential
Points
Arrange immunisations at least eight weeks before travel.
Take any special medication or dietary requirements
with you as they may not be found at your destination.
Make sure that your children have identification on
their person and details of their home address and place
of residence abroad.
Take some toys, games and refreshments for the journey
itself or in case of delay.
With babies it is best to continue to breast feed if
possible. Take proper precautions for sterilisation
and preparation of feeds.
Infants and children are particularly susceptible
to:
1. Dehydration
Ensure adequate fluid intake in hot climates.
2. Sunburn
Cover the children up, not forgetting protection for
the head. Use lots of sunblock and search for shade.
3. Injuries and Accidents
Do not leave them unsupervised, particularly when swimming.
4. Diarrhoeal Illnesses
Follow advice on Food
Care and Water Care.
Beware of using local fresh milk or formulations using
reconstituted powdered cow's milk as it can contain
bacteria that can cause diarrhoea. Be aware that cow's
milk is higher in salt and should not be used for rehydration.
If there is no available refrigeration, only use
freshly prepared feeds because bacteria are more
likely to multiply if foods are not stored properly.
To order
your copy of a What should I do? booklet
use one of the following methods:
Arrange immunisations at least eight weeks before travel.
