When Kids Get Sick Abroad

Hey, things happen. Influenza, broken bones, allergic reactions. It might be a little more complicated when you are abroad and away from your pediatrician, but here are some important ways to help make the times a bit easier to handle:

Get all of the necessary shots. Some need to be given a couple of weeks beforehand, in fact. So get them done early!

For best indicating, have your child wear an bracelet telling about his allergies, preexisting condition, or whatever medical condition he may have.

Before you leave, contact the State Department to get the phone numbers and addresses of the American Consulate in all of the cities you will be visiting. Or at least one in each country.

Make sure to take the telephone numbers for your credit card companies. Sometimes they are even able to help direct you for medical help when it's needed.

IAMAT (International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers) is a non-profit organization that would be of great help to you when you are looking for English-speaking doctors, hospitals, and clinics.

Your child's health insurance policy may or may not cover him when he is in another country. Take the necessary paperwork and proof of insurance with you, in case it is approved, or approved to be reimbursed. There are also temporary insurance policies available. Just make sure they cover return transportation back to the States and will guarantee bill payments.

Before you leave, make sure to pack a small first aid kit. It should include talcum powder, toothbrush and paste, cough medicine, motion sickness medicine, wet wipes, antiseptic, water purifier, gauze and tape, special foods and formulas, safety pins, sunscreen, baby aspirin, cotton swabs, flashlight, thermometer, diapers, and insect repellent. So, the list is rather extensive, but you are certainly not required to take all of them. Take what is most appropriate to the location.

Bring enough, even extra, medication with you! Also bring written prescriptions with their generic, not brand, names.

So, you see, taking these small precautions and preparations will really help your child if he or she gets sick or injured while out of the country! Now, let's book that vacation at www.kingarthur.myttn.com today!