9 Health tips when travelling with children (for parents)

Is it common for kids to get sick after travelling?

• Change in the environment: Travelling frequently exposes kids to unfamiliar environments, potentially exposing them to new germs and bacteria that their immune systems are not accustomed to 
• Disturbance of routine: Alterations in sleep habits, diet, and daily routines can impair a child’s immune system and elevate their susceptibility to infections.  
• Travel fatigue: Long journeys can be exhausting and stressful, influencing a child’s overall health and immune function.  
• Exposure to other travellers: Airports, train terminals, and other transportation centres are densely populated locations where viruses and bacteria can rapidly spread.  

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Common travel troubles

1. Jet lag: This occurs when you shift time zones and upset your body's internal clock. To minimise it, gradually modify your sleep pattern before leaving, remain hydrated, and get some sunlight at your location to restore your circadian(sleep) cycle. 
2. Ear pain (aircraft ear): Rapid elevation fluctuations might cause ear discomfort. To equalise pressure during take-off and landing, you can chew gum, yawn, or use specific earplugs. 
3. Traveller's diarrhoea: Traveller's diarrhoea is typically caused by ingesting contaminated food or water. Drink bottled water, avoid street food, and carry anti-diarrheal medicine or just-in-case antibiotics. If you are unsure about whether to carry antibiotics with you, please speak to one of our doctors. 
4. Motion sickness: To control motion sickness, which is caused by confusion between your eyes and inner ear, sit at the front of a vehicle, focus on a stable object, and avoid large meals before travelling. Travel sickness medications containing dimenhydrinate and hyoscine are also useful. 
5. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Long flights increase the risk of blood clots, particularly in the legs. To lower the chance of injury, walk every hour, perform calf exercises, remain hydrated, and wear compression socks. DVT is less likely in young children, but they need to keep mobile too.  
6. Sunburn: When visiting sunny areas, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and re-apply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Wearing protective clothes like caps and sunglasses can also help avoid burns. 
7. Altitude sickness: High-altitude travel can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea because of low oxygen levels. Ascend cautiously, remain hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Acetazolamide and other medications can help prevent or alleviate symptoms. Speak to our doctors if you think you may need a prescription for medications such as acetazolamide. 
8. Dehydration: Long flights, high temperatures, and strenuous physical activity can all cause dehydration. Drink lots of water, especially in hot climates or on airplanes with low humidity and avoid excessive coffee and alcohol. 
9. Insect bites and allergies: Wear long sleeves and apply insect repellent containing DEET if you are in an area where mosquitos or ticks thrive. If you have allergies, pack antihistamines or an EpiPen. 

How to prepare – health tips

1. Consult a doctor: Get a pre-travel health assessment and discuss any vaccinations or medications required for the travel destination (such as malaria or typhoid). 
2. Pack prescription medications: Bring enough for the journey and extras in case of delays. Keep a duplicate of your medications in case they are needed abroad. 
3. Prevent blood clots: To reduce your risk of deep vein thrombosis on lengthy flights or road journeys, move around regularly, stretch your legs, and wear compression socks. 
4. Protect against insects: For areas where mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria or dengue are common, bring insect repellent and mosquito nets or sprays. 
5. Stay hydrated and eat well: Stay hydrated during flights and eat balanced meals to avoid stomach problems. 
6. Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid sunburn, especially if travelling to tropical or sunny places. 
7. Prepare for allergies: If you suffer from severe allergies, carry antihistamines or an EpiPen. It is critical to study possible allergies on your trip. 
8. Mental well-being: Pack relaxing products such as sleep aids or travel pillows and take time to rest during lengthy flights. 
9. Insurance: Make sure to have sufficient travel insurance that includes coverage for medical issues abroad, such as emergencies and evacuations. 
10. Eat light before travel: To avoid discomfort, avoid heavy, fatty meals before taking a flight or driving. 

How to deal with travel health troubles with Hola?

• Web doctors: Quickly connect with a doctor to address common travel issues such as jet lag, diarrhoea, or altitude sickness. You can get advice on how to control symptoms and avoid additional issues. 
• Prescriptions & pharmacy delivery: Hola Health can provide digital prescriptions for ailments such as traveller's diarrhoea, infections, and even motion sickness. Pharmacy delivery is available in some areas, so you can get your medications without visiting a local pharmacy. 
• Medical certificates online: In case you fall ill during your trip and require an extension of your stay or time off from work, Hola Health can provide an online medical certificate after a consultation. 
• Preventive travel health information: Before travelling, check out our website for information on essential vaccinations, medicines, and health measures specific to your destination. 
• After-Hours doctors: For urgent situations or problems that occur after regular hours, Hola Health provides after-hours consultations, offering convenience in addressing health issues regardless of the time zone.