Travelling with children can be a thrilling experience, filled with adventures and new discoveries. However, ensuring their health and safety is paramount, especially when travelling to destinations with different health risks. Essential travel vaccines for kids are a crucial aspect of pre-trip planning, providing protection against various diseases.
Children are more susceptible to infections due to their developing immune systems. Vaccines prepare their bodies to fight potential diseases they may encounter abroad. Vaccination not only protects your child but also prevents the spread of diseases to others.
Recommended Vaccines for Children
Hepatitis A and B
- Hepatitis A is a liver disease transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids. Both vaccines are essential for regions with high infection rates. The hepatitis B vaccine is the most effective way to prevent infection.
Typhoid Fever: Typhoid is prevalent in areas with poor sanitation. Families traveling to parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America must receive a Typhoid fever vaccination.
Rabies: Rabies is a serious disease transmitted through animal bites. Children are at higher risk due to their tendency to approach animals. Vaccination is crucial for extended stays in rural areas.
Yellow Fever: Yellow Fever is a mosquito-borne illness found in certain parts of Africa and South America. Some nations often mandate vaccination for incoming visitors.
Meningococcal Disease: This vaccine protects against meningitis, a severe brain infection. It is advised for journeys to areas experiencing epidemics or for religious events like the Hajj.
Japanese Encephalitis: A mosquito-borne disease prevalent in rural Asia. The vaccine is advised for long-term travellers or those visiting rural areas.
When to Get Vaccinated
Plan vaccinations well in advance. Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks or months. Consult your GP or Hodgson travel clinic at least 6-8 weeks before departure. It is essential to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider for personalised advice based on your child’s health, destination, and type of travel.
Maintaining Routine Immunisations
In addition to travel-specific vaccines, ensure your child’s routine immunisations are up-to-date. This includes vaccines for diseases like measles, mumps, rubella (MMR vaccine), and polio. Keeping these vaccination schedules current provides a strong foundation of protection from health problems. Keeping track of your child’s vaccination schedule is
Health Precautions During Travel
- Hygiene: Teach children the importance of handwashing with soap and water.
- Food and Water Safety: Avoid raw foods and drink only bottled or boiled water.
- Insect Protection: Use insect repellent and mosquito nets to prevent bites.
- Animal Contact: Advise children to avoid contact with animals to reduce the risk of bites and scratches.
After Travel Health Check
Upon returning, monitor your child’s health. If they show symptoms of illness, seek medical advice promptly. Some travel-related diseases can have delayed symptoms.
Ensuring your children are vaccinated before travel is a critical step in safeguarding their health. Always prioritise your child’s health and safety to make the most of your travels with travel vaccines.
Stay Safe on Your Travels with Hodgson Pharmacy
Protect your health while traveling abroad with our vaccination services at Hodgson Pharmacy. Book an appointment at one of our convenient locations, including Dartford, Longfield and Gravesend to ensure you’re well-prepared for your trip.
Kindly refer to the travel guide on Travel Health Pro for more information on travel requirements for your destination.
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