Health Concerns of Families Traveling With Young Children

Dear Timi,
I am planning a trip to Africa to attend a wedding and would like to bring my granddaughter along who’s only 8 years old. We would be staying at a beach resort in Zanzibar and would not be traveling to other parts of Africa to avoid exposing her to more dangers than absolutely necessary. Am I crazy to invite the child on this trip? Of course, I would have her get all the inoculations she needs, but I wonder if she’s old enough to take medicine against malaria?

Dear Concerned Traveler,
Congratulations! Among all my travel experiences, Africa ranks very high up.

You are not at all crazy to bring your grandchild along on a trip that will leave a significant impression on her young mind. But I agree with you. It is prudent to consider the concerns you’ve mentioned.

Malaria is indeed a problem in many parts of Africa. Zanzibar is off the coast of Tanzania and has a different climate. Malaria is much less prevalent there. A beach resort sounds just perfect to give a child a first taste of Africa and keep her reasonably safe as well.

For vaccinations, however, you must consult with a tropical disease institute (most likely to be found at a University clinic). Don’t just go to your family doctor or a pediatrician with little or no first-hand knowledge of tropical diseases. Especially malaria medication can be hard on the liver and kidneys and may not be suitable at an early age.

Also, to prevent any number of diseases, you must be careful with your water supplies at all times. Don’t ever be tempted to drink water from a faucet and don’t use water from anything but sealed drinking water bottles, not even to brush your teeth with. Don’t put ice in your drinks. I only buy or order carbonated water, because I can be sure it has not been opened and resealed before.

Precautionary measures such as these should be taken in many parts of the world, not only in Africa.

Similar rules apply to your food. Cooked meals are preferable to salads and raw fruits. You can enjoy fruits as long as you cut and peel them yourself.

Generally speaking, keep your thinking cap on and avoid as many hazards and dangers as you can foresee.

Besides the medical considerations, let me assure you that Africa is a great country to visit, including with children. Since you are already in the area, you should take time to visit the famous wildlife parks, like the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. They offer once in a lifetime experiences. Most safari camps are perfectly safe and some allow children under 12 and have special programs for them.

Last but not least, have fun! Don’t get overanxious. Keep in mind that having a good attitude is an important part of your health protection too. If you are fearful and stressed out, your immune system may respond in kind. And your granddaughter may also be affected.

Enjoy your trip. It will be a wonderful experience.

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