Preparation is essential when travelling with children. Prior to departure, it is advisable to discuss possible health hazards and immunizations with your doctor. If your trip includes travel to underdeveloped regions, the discussion should also include:

1. water and food precautions;
2. malaria prophylaxis in the tropics;
3. swimming in stagnant tropical water (risk of infections such as schistosomiasis and leptosporosis);
4. walking barefoot (risk of hookworm);
5. avoiding stray dogs and cats (rabies);
6. the dangers of venomous animals and insects; and
7. the harmful effects of the sun.

If your child has pre-existing medical condition, it is a good idea to bring along a medical summary as well as an adequate supply of prescription medications.

Children should have their blood typed so that blood transfusions from family members with similar blood types can be given during emergencies. In many developing countries, blood bank screening for AIDS, hepatitis and other blood-transmitted diseases may be inadequate.

Long haul air travel can be physically taxing and, with the additional care and management of an infant or young child, flying can become a monumental task. Be prepared!

A check list for babies should include disposable diapers, bibs, baby food (and formulas), water, bottles, change of clothing and underpants, paper tissue and wipes. Toys and books are necessary to keep children occupied during long flights. If necessary, a mild oral sedative may be administered safely to young children during flight. However, it is best to consult with your physician.

If you are nursing a child, it is important that your drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Infants less than one week old should not fly at high altitudes or for long distances, since they may have problems adjusting to changes in barometric pressure.

Motion sickness is a common problem. It can be minimized during flight by sitting near the wing section or looking out towards the horizon. Eating small, low-fat, starchy meals before and during travel may also be helpful. A mild anti-motion medication such as phenergan (promethazine) can be given to children before flights. Anti-motion medications are less effective once symptoms have started. They may also cause drowsiness, blurred vision and occasionally dizziness.

Barometric changes during departure and particularly before descent can be a problem for children with sinus infections, colds or respiratory infections. For these conditions, it is best to seek medical attention prior to departure. Your doctor may prescribed oral decongestants and antihistamines to help alleviate the sinus.

Traveling When Pregnant

Traveling when pregnant is generally safe unless there is a history of habitual abortions or premature births. Most airlines have limitations on flying during the last one or two months of pregnancy, unless the trip is essential and authorized by a physician. Traveling during pregnancy will cause greater fatigue than usual. Therefore it is a good idea to get plenty of rest prior to departure. Pregnancy is also associated with increased bladder pressure and frequent urination so it may be advantageous to sit at a location allowing for easy access to the toilets.

If you are prone to motion sickness, it would be best to discuss with your obstetrician a safe medication. As with children, all anti-motion medications should be taken ahead of time since, once symptoms have started, their effectiveness is limited.