Travel special needs

 Travel special needs

Travelling with small children

Many of the potential problems that can occur when travelling with small children can be avoided by advance planning.

On the journey

Pre-book seats where possible and take plenty of toys or books to entertain the child. Make sure you have pre-booked child meals on a flight and have enough food for your baby.

Immunisation and malaria prophylaxis

All childhood immunisations should be up-to-date. Other immunisations may be advised and these should be given in the correct dose.

Food and drink

This is the most likely source of illness in children so avoid contaminated foods and water. If the child suffers from diarrhoea it is important to avoid dehydration and so clear fluids should be encouraged, possibly with rehydrating powders or tablets.

The sun

Children have a low resistance to the harmful effects of the sun and so should be well protected by clothing and sun block cream.

Diabetic travellers

On the journey

Take adequate supplies of insulin, syringes, blood glucose strips. Carry necessary equipment in hand luggage where it can be easily accessed. Have a means of disposing of needles.

Immunisation and malaria prophylaxis

Immunisation is equally important in all groups.

Climate

Insulin absorption may be affected in a warm climate. Maintain a high fluid intake to compensate for loss.

Medication

Take a list of all your medications with you and make sure you take sufficient supplies to last the whole trip as you may not be able to get the same products in other countries. All your medication should be clearly labelled and carried in your hand baggage. When abroad your medication should be stored in a cool dry place.

Footcare

During the journey make sure shoes are not too tight as feet can swell. Take a walk each hour as exercise limit the amount of swelling. If hospital shoes are normally worn then also wear them on holiday. Changing to ordinary shoes could cause ulcers. Avoid walking barefoot; wear protective footwear on the sand and in the water. Avoid sunburn to feet and legs by using protective sunscreens or covering up. Prevent dry skin by using moisturisers, especially on heels which crack easily. Moist skin can lead to infection. take first aid kit for minor injuries. Examine feet regularly and seek medical attention if any problems arise

Further information

Comprehensive country-specific advice is available from: The British Diabetic Society, 10 Queen Ann Street, London W1M OBD

Elderly travellers

Immunisation and malaria prophylaxis

Immunisation is equally important in all age groups.

Fit to travel

If you have an ongoing medical condition it is advisable to be checked out by your GP and to carry a letter with details of the condition in case you require medical attention abroad.

Medication

Take a list of all your medications with you and make sure you take sufficient supplies to last the whole trip as you may not be able to get the same products in other countries. All your medication should be clearly labelled and carried in your hand baggage. When abroad your medication should be stored in a cool dry place.

Insurance

It is important before travelling to check that your insurance policy covers elderly travellers.

Long-term visitors

Fit to travel

A dental and eye check before travelling are wise precautions for the traveller who will remain out of the country for a prolonged period.

Immunisation and malaria prophylaxis

Immunisation is equally important in long-term travellers.

Insurance

It is important before travelling to check that your insurance policy covers long-term travel. Most standard policies only cover up to 28 days.

Health problems

Pre-existing health problems should be discussed with your GP and sufficient supplies of medication taken to cover the time until a local supply can be set up. A doctors summary of your condition will also be useful for your new physician.

Pregnant travellers

On the journey

It is not uncommon for pregnant women to travel long distances and most airlines will carry women up until 32-36 weeks gestation. Most have no problems with the journey. To avoid the risk of blood clots it is a good idea to walk at regular intervals on a long journey.

Fit to travel

It is advisable to be checked out by your GP or midwife before travelling and to carry a letter stating that you are fit to travel and the date the baby is due.

Immunisation and malaria prophylaxis

Appropriate immunisation and malaria prevention is sometimes different during pregnancy so seek advice from your doctor.

Facilities

Maternity facilities vary from country to country and this must be considered when planning a trip to a less developed country.

Food and drink

Pregnant travellers should take special care with their food and drink and should avoid partially cooked meat, unpasteurised milk products and soft cheeses

Insurance

It is important before travelling to check that your insurance policy covers pregnant travellers.