Health & Wellbeing
Insect Protection
Mosquitos in Florida do not carry malaria but they can cause unpleasant reactions. Seek medical advice if an insect bite causes swelling, bruising or persistent pain. It is important to talk to your GP approximately 2 months before travelling to ensure that there are no particular precautions to take. You should also check the NHS ‘Fit for Travel’ website to check if there are any current outbreaks of disease that you should be aware of.
Mosquito repellent, a mosquito patch and or a mosquito bracelet and a mosquito net are a must in Florida especially if your baby is going to be out in the evenings when they are more likely to bite. Many restaurants and markets are outdoors and the risk of being bitten is higher.
Click here for further information on insect protection and how to deal with insect bites.
Sun Protection
Ensure that you bring sunblock for babies older than 6 months and for toddlers (Factor 30+).- Lightweight and or cotton clothing is best in the heat but remember to cover your baby’s feet as at night as mosquitoes may bite. It is useful to buy swimwear with long sleeves also as this will protect your baby while in the water. Make sure that you also bring a sun hat for your baby as their heads can burn very quickly.
- A parasol will assist in keeping the sun off your baby’s skin and certain brands can be attached to your baby’s buggy. You can also buy a stroller shade which covers much more of your buggy and if the sun is particularly bright, this may be more useful.
- Make sure that you use a sun umbrella at the beach or by the pool to provide shade for your baby. If one is not available try sitting in a shaded area. A UV protected small sun tent can be purchased for the beach. These are more suitable for younger babies as toddlers will want to move about.
- Please note that if you forget sun protection for your baby that you will be able to buy anything you need in Florida in any large supermarket such as Walmart or from pharmacies.
For further information on protecting your baby from the sun click here.
First Aid
A good first aid kit is essential for any trip abroad. Click here for advice on first aid and how to treat minor injuries, burns and bites yourself.
Emergencies
The US Emergency number is 911. Operators can direct your call to the appropriate emergency response services. If you need to visit a doctor you will probably need to pay up front. If you need a hospital or other medical services, you will need to keep all receipts. It is vital that you get travel insurance for your whole family when travelling to the USA as the medical costs can be very high. Medical care in hospitals in America tends to be very good so rest assured if you or any member of your family becomes ill that they will be well taken care of.
Consular Services
Contact your consular service or embassy if you have been a victim of crime, arrested on suspicion of committing a crime, if you or anyone in your family has a serious illness, experience the unexpected death of a partner or spouse and for help with repatriation after a crisis. Consular offices also provide help in the case of a lost or stolen passport.
Information on UK embassies and consulates can be found at https://www.gov.uk/ and for information on Irish embassies and consulates visit www.dfa.ie.
Features & Useful Links
Lonely Planet Guide to Florida: www.lonelyplanet.com/Florida
Florida Tourism Guide: www.visitflorida.com
Taking the Kids: Three Days in Tampa: http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/florida/taking-the-kids-three-days-in-tampa
6 of the Best Beaches in Florida: http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/27/best-beaches-florida
