the holiday season is here, and it's the perfect time for families to take a break and go on vacation. however, parents often worry about their kids falling ill during trips. is this a common occurrence? there's a scientific explanation for it. children thrive on routines, and when these routines are disrupted due to the excitement and preparations for a vacation, it can impact their immune system, making them more susceptible to minor illnesses.
should families avoid going on vacation with kids altogether? absolutely not! vacations are an excellent way for parents and children to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
to ensure a smooth and healthy vacation, take some precautions before you leave:
- prepare your child in advance for the upcoming holiday and involve them in decision-making about family activities.
- consider any pre-vacation health check-ups.
- if you're traveling to a country with a time difference, gradually adjust your child's sleeping schedule to minimize the effects of jet lag.
- listen to your child's expectations and address any concerns they may have about the trip.
by taking these measures, you can help your child maintain their routine and minimize the impact of changes in their environment.
in addition to these precautions, having easy access to medical care is crucial. while pediatricians may not always be readily available during vacation, telemedicine can be a lifesaver. with telemedicine, you can have access to a medical doctor via phone or computer, no matter where you are. this can give parents peace of mind and timely medical assistance in case of health concerns with their children.
in today's digital age, most pediatric issues can be diagnosed and managed through telemedicine, reducing the need for unnecessary hospital visits. as you go on vacation with your family, having a trusted telemedicine service on your phone or tablet can ensure that you have access to medical care, no matter where your travels take you.
and remember: always ensure that you use a pediatric telemedicine service staffed by pediatricians, not general practitioners. the quality and specialization of the professional you choose are crucial for effective diagnosis and advice because there are many specificities and differences to consider.
so, go ahead and enjoy your vacation with your family, knowing that you have access to medical support whenever you need it. have a safe and happy holiday season!
ana silva is a graduated pediatric doctor from the university of coimbra and is currently the head of the pediatric department at CUF coimbra hospital and CUF viseu hospital. she is also a specialist in neonatal intensive care and last but not least, a powerful and inspiring woman. she constantly carries a CINCO lucky item, which allows her to be thus strong while remaining the sweetest with our kids!
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