News& Information

Travelling during Spring Festival? Remember to pack First Aid Kit

Are you one of those who will take a break during the Chinese New Year holiday? One of the most important things that family travelers should always have when they travel is a first aid kit. This small pouch with the following health essentials can save lives, so always make it accessible.

Fever reducer and pain control

- Paracetamol/acetaminophen (Tylenol or Panadol) and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nurofen), including child formulations that come in liquid or chewable forms.

Minor illnesses with fever-like symptoms can happen and these drugs can help reduce fever or mild to moderate pain. But be sure to follow the dosing instructions.

Cough and colds

- Over-the-counter drugs for cough and cold symptoms caused influenza or other viruses

Usually, many of these medications have paracetamol/acetaminophen to relieve pain, so it’s important to avoid taking other paracetamol/acetaminophen products at the same time. Doing so may lead to toxicity and affect the liver. Also, cough and cold remedies are not recommended for children under 6 years old.

Small cuts and bruises

- Antibacterial ointments (mupirocin and compound polymyxin B), adhesive bandages and gauze, medical adhesive tapes

Minor injuries can happen and it’s important to attend to them as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection. Clean small cuts or scrapes immediately with soap and clean water.

Diarrhea

- Antidiarrheal medications (loperamide or diphenoxylate), oral rehydration solution, or antibiotic prescription for severe cases

Diarrhea can interfere with travel plans especially if you are taking day trips with long drives. Staying hydrated remains to be the best way to reduce diarrhea occurrences. Most cases clear up fast and medications like loperamide can help manage moderate diarrhea. But there are severe cases that come with blood, mucus, or fever and pain and these might require antibiotics. If there is abdominal pain, stop taking the medication.

Allergies

- Anti-histamine (diphenhydramine, cetirizine, and loratadine) for adults and children

When you go to other places or countries, be prepared for allergens in the environment or even in the food you eat. Allergies can be in the form of mild reactions as itchy skin, rashes, or sneezing to severe ones like nasal congestion or difficulty in breathing. If you’ve been diagnosed with a severe allergic reaction, be sure to bring your epinephrine autoinjector.

Sun safety

- Water-resistant sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, cool compress or aloe vera -based gels for sunburns

Many travelers will go to warm and sunny places this pre-spring break, but don’t bask in the sun for too long. Too much sun can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancers, as well as affect the eyes. Protect yourself and your family by wearing breathable clothing and protective accessories like sunglasses and hats, and minimizing exposure to the sun. If your family is going to the beach, use a water-resistant sunscreen with at least 30 SPF (sun protection factor).

Mosquitos

- Insect repellents with 20-30% DEET (active ingredient)

Tropical places are good for some nature trips, but beware as many jungles and nearby urban areas are infested with mosquitoes. They are carriers of pathogens that cause malaria, dengue, and Zika. In addition to spraying insect or mosquito repellents, wear long sleeves and pants and minimize outdoor time especially at night when there are many mosquitos flying around. When applying mosquito repellent to children, do not spray it directly on their hands but instead apply it to the adult’s hand and then wipe it on exposed skin.

Other items

- Bandages
- Tweezers and small scissors

- Cotton buds

- Digital thermometer

- A digital copy of doctor’s prescription and health records saved in a flash drive

Important advice

- If you have chronic illnesses, it is wise to bring medications that will last a week longer than your trip. It is also important to bring your prescription with you all the time.

- If your family is traveling by plane, check your airline’s regulations or restrictions regarding bringing liquefied medical supplies in your first aid kit. They usually need to be in a 100ml bottle or less and put into a sealed and clear plastic container.

-Update your first aid skills

IMC next Children’s First Aid Training for Parents will be on Sunday February 17^th at 9-12.

300 RMB/person. Details and sign up: katja@imcclinics.com