Children traveling and diarrhea

The biggest risk for the child who has diarrhea and vomits is dehydration.

For the infant, breastfeeding is the safest way.

Travelers should only drink purified water, avoid ice cubes, or use those prepared by parents with purified water.

Brush children's teeth with bottled or purified water, and mix powdered milk and food preparations with this water.

Pay particular attention to washing hands, washers for teeth, and toys that fall to the floor or are handled by someone else.

When the situation does not allow washing hands with soap and water, use disinfectant gel. However the alcohol contained in the gel does not remove all the germs especially if there is sand.

Ensure that dairy products are pasteurized.

All advice regarding food and water in general while traveling is also important for the child.

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If your child has diarrhea and is vomiting, it is advisable to use sachets containing rehydration solutions that are mixed with purified water while continuing to feed the child. Consult your health care nurse or pharmacist

This preparation should be given to the child when there are signs of dehydration.

If the child is vomiting, give him the liquid with a teaspoon frequently which tends to decrease vomiting.

Syringes are available in all pharmacies for oral medication and may be useful for administering rehydration fluids and may be included in the early childhood health kit.

Drinks for athletes are contraindicated because they do not contain the same amount of electrolytes as the recommended solutions for rehydration.

Breastfeeding should continue to demand. For those who are fed by the formulas for children, they must continue to take them.

Avoid soft drinks, undiluted fruit juices, gelatins, and sugary cereals as they increase osmosis diarrhea.

Avoid foods high in fat.

Parents should make sure to wash their hands after changing diapers to avoid getting infected as well as other family members.

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Antidiarrheal medication is not recommended for children under 12 years old. It is recommended to consult the doctor before the trip for more information.

Some antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor and/or your pharmacist in self-treatment. Consult with the doctor and/or pharmacist if there is a need for such a prescription before departure.

When traveling, regardless of your destination or physical condition, a consultation with a trained health professional is expected at least 6 weeks before your departure.

Christine Dumontet RN 

President Dumontet CSV and Founder of Travel Health Assist