Safe in the sun

IF you’re lucky enough to be heading overseas on a family holiday this summer, you’ll want to make sure your trip’s memorable for all the right reasons.

With kids, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and you never know when a tummy bug or temperature might hit — and that doesn’t change just because you’ve waved goodbye to normal life for a week.

“Family holidays are often the highlight of our year, a well-earned chance to relax and spend quality time with our loved ones,” says Boots pharmacist Manny Johal. “But while we’ll often spend countless hours choosing outfits and packing, many of us are less prepared when it comes to planning for our holiday health.

“Bumps, scrapes and funny tummies are all common holiday ailments, and although it’s understandably the last thing you want to worry about, with just a little preparation, you can ensure you and your family are in the best possible position to enjoy a happy and healthy break together.”

Slapping on the SPF often becomes a priority as we get older, when things like cancer (and wrinkles) are suddenly more of a reality. However, protecting children’s skin is just as vital, if not more so, as studies suggest that as little as one bad bout of sunburn during childhood can significantly increase chances of developing cancerous melanoma later on. Sunburn can also be extremely sore and painful and severe sunburn means skin could become infected too.

Always opt for high factor sunscreens for tots and children, and they should be reapplied regularly. It’s especially important to seek shade when the sun is its strongest, around midday.

Babies and toddlers need plenty of shade, as they can be far more vulnerable to the effects of heat. If your youngster does develop sunburn and you’re concerned, seek medical advice.

Even if your child’s in good general health, stocking up on a few items, just in case, is a good idea.

Travel sickness remedies, child-suitable painkillers, soothing creams for rashes and bites, rehydration sachets and a first aid kit are all items that might be needed.

“Food poisoning and dodgy stomachs can be a common occurrence when travelling, and diarrhoea and vomiting is more of a concern in younger children, as they can lose a lot of water and become dehydrated quicker than adults,” says Johal.

He advises avoiding ice and tap water (which may also have been used to wash salad and fruit) and ensuring that food’s properly heated. If your child does come down with a dodgy tum, ensure they’re well hydrated and eat plain foods until it’s passed, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or get worse.