Staying safe while travelling with little ones

Travelling with children, especially those below five years old, can be challenging.

Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) Accident and Emergency Department head Dr Lee Soon Han said the most common travel-related injuries or illnesses among children were motor vehicle accidents; falls leading to cuts, bruises or open wounds; and febrile (showing symptoms of fever) or respiratory illness due to viruses.

Water-related injuries such as drowning, diarrhoea and vomiting due to food poisoning were also found to be common injuries.

To lower the risk of motor vehicle-related incidents, Dr Lee advised parents to use booster or car seats and seat belts correctly according to the child’s age, height, and weight.

Dr Lee advises parents to use booster or car seats and seat belts according to the child’s age, height and weight.As for water-related incidents, he said to make sure to wear water safety devices during swimming and always have close adult supervision.

To prevent food poisoning, he said it was important to always consume clean water and proper food, while maintaining milk bottle hygiene to prevent food poisoning.”

First-aid kit essentials were something every parent should prioritise when travelling with children, he added.

“The kit should have paracetamol for fever or pain, oral rehydration solution (ORS), cough and cold medications, and inhalers for children with asthma.

“There should also be basic items for wound care, such as gloves, gauze, antiseptic wipes, band-aids and adhesive tape, as well as a thermometer.”

Dr Lee also gave tips for preventing motion sickness, namely staying hydrated and avoiding heavy meals.

“Instead, consider eating and drinking in small amounts regularly.”

Dr Lee added that pressure in the ear during plane trips could be equalised by swallowing or chewing, while familiar toys could be brought along for a child’s comfort.

For children with chronic heart or lung disease, travelling to destinations with different climates or altitudes may be risky.

As such, he advised parents to consult their doctors before travelling.

Dr Nur Elayni Borhan, SMC’s Consultant Emergency Physician, said parents should note that a child’s digestive system was more sensitive compared to adults.

Hence, diarrhoea and vomiting were among the most common illnesses that she saw in the Emergency Department.

“Please ensure your child is taught to follow safe food and water precautions.

“Frequently wash hands to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses, breastfeed your infants as it’s the best way to reduce risk, and make sure vaccinations are up-to-date as there is generally a higher risk for most vaccine-preventable diseases when travelling,” she urged.

She said children should also avoid swimming in water bodies such as rivers, ponds or lakes, as they might be contaminated with diseases that could be transmitted to the child if the water was ingested.

“To treat diarrhoea, it is best to consume plenty of fluids. ORS may be used to prevent dehydration, especially if there is vomiting.

“If your child appears to be dehydrated, has a fever or bloody stools, seek medical attention immediately,” she added.

For children with food allergies, Dr Elayni said planning ahead was key to making the trip safe and enjoyable.

She advised bringing along a medical kit with the child’s medication, including their epinephrine pen, no matter how near or short the trip.

“If you are going to a non-English speaking country, get information about the allergy translated.

“You can give this written information to those who prepare your food to help them understand your child’s needs.

“If your child has a history of severe allergies, take note of allergy policies on airlines and at hotels.

“Every airline or hotel is different, and they need advance notice to make accommodations.

“Research restaurants or grocery stores which would carry products safe for your child,” she said.

Dr Elayni also recommended packing safe snacks in case there were no safe restaurants for your child.

Dr Lee added, “Prior to departure, identify all important healthcare facilities at the destination and get advice on available local medical services from hotels or tour company representatives.

“All child travellers should be included in any travel insurance policies bought for the trip, which should include medical repatriation if necessary.”