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Traveling with children: health precautions you shouldn’t forget
Family travel offers the opportunity to create memorable moments and discover the world from a different perspective. Whether it’s for a vacation down south, a trip to Europe, or a more exotic adventure, traveling with children requires extra organization, especially when it comes to health.
Before departure, a few simple steps can help protect the whole family and provide greater peace of mind while traveling.
Check vaccinations before departure
Depending on your chosen destination, certain vaccines may be recommended or required. Even in popular tourist countries, certain health risks remain, particularly for young children whose immune systems are still developing.
It is important to:
- verify that children's routine vaccinations are up to date;
- learn about recommended vaccines based on the country being visited;
- schedule a consultation a few weeks before the trip.
Some protections require several doses or a waiting period before becoming fully effective.(1)
The AES Vaccination Centre team can assist families in evaluating recommendations tailored to their destination and the age of their children.
Pack a travel health kit adapted for children
A well-adapted health kit prevents many worries once you arrive. Indeed, a child’s needs can change quickly during a trip, especially with the heat, jet lag, or new foods.
Here are some essentials to include:
- medication for fever and pain;
- thermometer;
- bandages and disinfectant;
- sunscreen suitable for children;
- insect repellent;
- prescribed medications as needed;
- rehydration solution.
It is also advisable to bring a copy of the vaccination record and any important prescriptions. (2)
Protect against mosquitoes
In many tropical or southern regions, mosquito bites can transmit diseases such as dengue or chikungunya.
Since children are often more sensitive to bites, a few simple measures can make a big difference:
- choose lightweight clothing that covers arms and legs;
- use a safe insect repellent suitable for the child's age;
- opt for accommodations equipped with mosquito nets or air conditioning;
- avoid very humid areas at certain times of the day.
Before departure, it is important to stay informed about the risks related to your chosen destination.(3) That is why the AES Centre team guides you in reviewing the specific health issues for your trip.
Pay attention to food and hydration
Switching to local eating habits can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in children. Additionally, in some countries, the quality of water or food can also increase the risk of infection.
A few useful precautions:
- prioritize bottled water when recommended;
- avoid raw foods in certain destinations;
- wash hands thoroughly before meals;
- maintain good hydration, especially in hot climates.(4)
Schedule a travel health consultation before departure
Every travel project is unique. The itinerary, length of stay, age of the children, and planned activities can all influence medical recommendations before departure. A clinic consultation allows for the evaluation of recommended vaccines based on the destination, provides personalized advice, prepares the whole family for the trip, and reduces certain health risks during the stay. At the AES Vaccination Centre, our team supports travelers and families so they can leave with peace of mind and fully enjoy their adventure.
Travel as a family with confidence
Traveling with children is an enriching experience; good preparation is the key to savoring every moment as a family and leaving worries behind. Simple precautionary measures make all the difference in securing the health of the whole family before, during, and after the trip.
To obtain advice tailored to your destination or to schedule a travel health consultation, contact the AES Vaccination Centre.
Source Note
- Government of Canada — https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/children
- INSPQ — https://www.inspq.qc.ca/en/travel-health
- Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/travel-health
- CIUSSS Mauricie-et-Centre-du-Québec — https://ciusssmcq.ca/blogue/108/conseils-pour-voyager-en-sante
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