Early planning and smart packing can help you keep your baby healthy while travelling.
If travelling abroad
It’s critical to learn what vaccinations your baby (and even you) may require before international travel.
“Different countries have different risks and regulations that may necessitate specific vaccines. Some vaccines are administered in multiple doses over days or even weeks. The majority of vaccines take time to become effective,” said Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“Most immunisations should be administered at least one month before departure. So, try to make an appointment with your baby’s paediatrician at least four to six weeks before your trip.
“Even if you’re leaving sooner, make an appointment because your baby may still benefit from shots or medications.”
If travelling to malaria areas
If you’re going to a malaria-risk country, talk to your baby’s doctor about antimalarial drugs.
Common travel issues
Your baby may experience health issues such as jet lag, ear discomfort, travel sickness, and diarrhoea, regardless of where you go or how far you travel.
Jet lag
To prevent jet lag, try to change your baby’s sleep schedule two or three days before your trip.
Dehydration is one of the causes of jet lag, so ensure your baby drinks plenty of water during the flight.
Earache
It’s common for children to suffer ear discomfort during a plane’s takeoff and landing due to pressure in the middle ear as it tries to keep up with the rapidly changing air pressure.
Earache can be relieved by nursing or giving your baby a bottle.
Travel sickness
Travel sickness is common on ships and boats, but it can also affect babies when they travel by plane, bus, or car.
To help with motion sickness, have your baby eat a light meal or snack before you leave, as motion sickness appears to be worse on an empty stomach.Diarrhoea
Travelling can cause diarrhoea and other stomach problems in infants.
Often, water in developing countries is to blame, as it may contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
To ensure the safety of the water, your baby is drinking:
• Consider only giving your infant bottled water.
• If you use tap water, boil it first or use an iodine tablet to purify it.
• Continue to breastfeed your baby if you are doing so.
• Pacifiers, teething rings, and toys should all be kept clean.
• Ensure all dairy products have been pasteurised.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables should be cooked or washed thoroughly before peeling.
• Meats and fish should be thoroughly cooked and consumed immediately after preparation.
Pack necessary baby supplies
Pack any medications and other medical supplies that your baby uses regularly.
These may be difficult to find at your destination. If necessary, keep asthma inhalers, allergy medication, and insulin on hand.
Find out where the nearest hospital or medical care is at your destination before you go, especially if your baby has a chronic health condition.
“Write down your baby’s medical history; having this available in an emergency can assist healthcare workers in making more informed decisions,” said Hewlett.
• Supplied by Affinity Health
