Keep your family healthy on holiday

July 10, 2022

When you’ve been planning a family holiday for months, the last thing you want is for you or your little ones to get sick.

Guest Blogger: House Call Doctor has some tips on how you and your family can stay healthy on your holiday.

Slip Slop Slap!

While it may sound basic, it is important to protect yourself and your family from the sun, regardless of the season. Don’t forget to: Slip on sun protective clothing Slop on some sunscreen, and Slap on a protective hat to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion, even in the winter months.

Avoid food poisoning

If you’re on a camping holiday and have limited access to facilities, or if you’re simply enjoying a cheese platter over a matter of hours, it is important to be cautious of contracting food poisoning. Assistant Clinical Director Dr Ryan Harvey at House Call Doctor recommends you keep food at regulated temperatures to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. “Make sure meats aren’t left out to defrost, cold foods (including eggs) are kept in the fridge, and meats are cooked through before you eat them,” he said. “Don’t leave snacks like cheeses or dips out for too long in the heat either.”

Exercise!

Staying fit and active is one of the best ways to boost your immune system and avoid getting sick. While holidaying in Queensland, you could have a swim in South Bank, or go for a riverside jog, or even hike Mount Coot-tha. With all the sightseeing and exploring awaiting you on your holiday, this should be easy! According to Dr Harvey, “Children who are active every day will demonstrate lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones and a decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.” So while staying healthy on your holiday, you can also set good habits for the health and wellbeing of little ones in your family.

Be aware of travel sickness

If you’re driving for lengthy periods, some family members may get car sick.

Keep windows slightly open to let in a breeze
Pack some healthy snacks in the car to help reduce nausea.

If you are heading off on a cruise and feel seasick, we recommend you:

Keep your eyes on a fixed point or look out to the horizon.
Avoid foods that are rich in fats or spicy, as they have been known to worsen symptoms of motion sickness.

Many thanks to our guest blogger

Brisbane Holiday Village would like to thank the House Call Doctor for their guest blog on Keeping your Family Healthy on Holiday! House Call Doctor sends a home doctor to you and your family when your regular GP is closed at night and on weekends and public holidays. To book a house call home doctor, patients should call: 13 55 66. You can also book online or via the House Call Doctor App.