Travel special groups
Children, diabetics, elderly,
long term visitors, pregnancy
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.
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