Reducing the Risk of Ear Infections in Children While on Holiday

Going on holiday is an exciting time for families, but it can also bring about health concerns, particularly the risk of ear infections in children. These infections can be painful and potentially affect the holiday experience. Fortunately, there are several strategies parents can use to reduce the risk of ear infections while traveling.

1. Dry Ears Thoroughly After Swimming

Water activities are often a highlight of any holiday, but they can also lead to ear infections, particularly swimmer’s ear (otitis externa). After swimming, make sure to dry your child’s ears thoroughly. You can use a towel to gently dry the outer ear. Ensuring ears are dry helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped and creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

2. Use Ear Protection

If your holiday involves swimming, consider using earplugs designed for children. These can help prevent water from entering the ear canal. We recommend the Ear Band-It, designed to hold ear plugs or ear moulds in place while engaging in water activities.

3. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Encourage regular hand washing, especially before eating and after playing. This can reduce the spread of germs that cause colds and other infections, which can lead to ear infections.

4. Dry Antibiotics

If your child has a history of ear infections your GP may prescribe a dry antibiotic for you. If you see the signs of an ear infection in your child while on holiday, you can then make up the antibiotic and ensure your child has treatment early.

Hopefully these ideas might help to reduce the risk of your child getting an ear infection while on holiday.