JAKARTA - Ahead of the homecoming and long holiday period, the Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) released guidelines for families who will travel with children. This recommendation includes health protection to driving safety during the trip.
The Chairman of the IDAI Central Board, Dr. Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, emphasized that the first step that parents should consider before traveling far is to ensure that the child's immunization is complete.
"Vaccination is the strongest defense we can give to children. The most crucial step before going home is to ensure that your child's immunization is complete, especially the MR/MMR vaccine," said Piprim.
He explained that two-dose vaccination has proven effective in preventing measles transmission, which is known to be very easy to spread, even faster than influenza.
"If children's immunizations are complete, their protection is optimal, and this gives parents extra peace of mind during the holidays," he said.
In addition to vaccination, IDAI also reminds parents to continue to implement health protocols during travel, especially because of the high mobility of the community during the homecoming season. Some of the recommended steps include maintaining hand hygiene, using masks on public transportation or in public spaces, and teaching children coughing and sneezing etiquette.
Parents are also advised to avoid crowded places and not share personal items such as eating utensils, towels, or drinking bottles.
In choosing a tourist destination, IDAI recommends that families consider safe and child-friendly destinations. Piprim said indoor tourist attractions can be an option to avoid exposure to rain and excessive crowds.
"Choose indoor destinations such as museums, interactive science centers, children's libraries, or indoor playgrounds. These places are still fun for children and safer than bad weather and visitor density," he said.
In addition, parents are advised to monitor weather forecasts, ensure that children are in good health before leaving, and prepare alternative activities if the weather is not supportive.
IDAI also reminds the importance of bringing equipment that can support the health and comfort of children during the journey. Some of them are basic medicines, vitamins, thermometers, as well as healthy snacks and toys to reduce boredom during the journey.
On the other hand, the aspect of driving safety is also an important concern. Secretary General of the IDAI Central Board, Dr. Hikari Ambara Sjakti, emphasized that child protection in vehicles must be the top priority for parents.
"The safety of children on the road is the absolute responsibility of parents. Never take the use of car seats or seat belts lightly," said Hikari.
According to him, children must use safety equipment that is appropriate for their age and weight, such as a car seat for toddlers or a booster seat for older children.
For two-wheeled vehicles, IDAI also emphasized that children under the age of six should not be carried on a motorcycle. If you have to drive a motorcycle, children must use a SNI-standard helmet that fits the size of the head.
In addition, drivers are also urged to ensure that their bodies remain in good condition, avoid using cell phones while driving, and rest every two to three hours if traveling long distances.
Through careful preparation, the homecoming and holiday trip with children can be a valuable experience for the family while still maintaining health and safety during the trip.
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