I need your holiday advice...

Submitted by Ella on Thu, 2008-05-01 12:48.

I'm taking Rudy across the water on one of those things called a holiday. I've kakking it. Never been in charge of a minor before, let alone in Spain.

Please email me with any tips or pointers you have, equipment I need etc etc etc.

I will be reporting back with a holiday special and a round-up for must-haves....

 

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The Doctor says

Submitted by david on Fri, 2008-05-16 12:54.

Hi Ella,

The most common medical problems small babies experience in hot countries are sunburn, prickly heat and diarrhoea.

Avoid sunburn by applying high-protection sunscreen, to a factor of 25+. If Rudy gets sunburnt, bathe the affected area with cool water or cold compresses, apply calamine lotion and administer an analgesic such as liquid paracetamol.

Prickly heat is a fine red rash with tiny blisters. Youngsters are particularly prone to this uncomfortable problem because of their underdeveloped sweat glands and circulatory systems.

Avoid the condition by keeping Rudy cool and dressing him only in 100 per cent cotton clothing. If using a car make sure it has air conditioning.

Diarrhoea can be particularly serious in babies as they dehydrate at a faster rate than adults. Breastfeeding is the safest way to feed a baby in foreign countries.

Make sure to drink plenty of bottled water – check it has low sodium content – and take sachets of re-hydration powder, which you can mix with water should you need it. If the diarrhoea is severe and is accompanied by vomiting then seek medical advice immediately. Always take out comprehensive medical insurance so you can see a doctor without worrying about the expense.

Enjoy your holiday