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WHEN SPRING BREAK
rolls around, parents may worry
their kids will forget everything they’ve taught them.
It’s no wonder. According to Michael Gronberg, MD,
pediatrician with Centegra Physician Care, “Many teens and
young adults take some very dangerous risks during spring
break travel. This makes them even more vulnerable to the
number one cause of death among Americans under 30:
unintentional injuries.
“When kids know the adults in their lives disapprove of
certain behaviors, they’re less likely to engage in them. So
take time to remind your emerging adults of what you expect
of them. Don’t only say it but follow it to set a good example.”
Below is some good, time-tested parental advice you can
share with your kids just in time to plan for spring break.
Be prepared. If you’re leaving the U.S., apply for your
passport—immediately. Check travel alerts and warnings
for your destination countries at travel.state.gov, and get
any required vaccinations. Find out whether your health
insurance covers you abroad. If not, get travelers’ health
insurance. Wherever you’re going, give your parents
your itinerary.
Wash your hands. New place, new germs. Spring break
overlaps with flu season, so get a flu shot before you go.
Protect yourself. If you’re off to the ski slopes, make sure
your clothes will protect you from hypothermia. For fun in
the sun, wear sunscreen. Pack some insect repellent.
Look both ways. Be observant, and avoid places that
seem unsafe. Always explore with a buddy, and make sure
someone knows where you’ll be—especially if you change
your itinerary.
Avoid sharp objects. If you think getting a commemorative
Spring break:
Steps for staying safe
tattoo or piercing sounds cool, think instead about avoiding
HIV and hepatitis B.
Buckle up. For driving abroad, learn the road rules. Wear
your seatbelt, and avoid distractions such as phone calls
and texting. Always designate a sober driver.
Eat your (cooked) vegetables. Choose healthy foods,
and remain hydrated. In developing countries, drink sealed
bottled water, and avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless you
peel them yourself. To be safe, pack a diarrhea medicine, such
as Pepto-Bismol.
Don’t take candy from strangers. Meeting new people
is a great travel perk—as long as you’re careful. Never go off
with a stranger. At parties, don’t drink anything you haven’t
opened yourself, and keep your drink in your hand to prevent
anything from being slipped in. If you engage in any sexual
activity, use condoms. Remember, the safest sex is no sex.
Smile for the camera. Have fun—and be safe!
HEALTH IS A HOT TOPIC,
and information is everywhere. The problem can be finding a
trustworthy source. The solution? The Centegra Health System My Health e-newsletter. You’ll
know that what you read is accurate and up-to-date. Customize it to receive information on
topics you choose, such as arthritis, men’s health, or nutrition and fitness. Subscribe to get:
Your free e-newsletter once every quarter
Health updates about once a month
An optional free pregnancy e-newsletter with timely information linked to your due date
An extra treat to sweeten the deal—a healthy and delicious recipe (this quarter’s recipe is for
cranberry and sweet potato bread)
Sign up now at centegra.org/enews!
YourMyHealth e-newsletter—sign up now!
Are you ready
for travel?
CALL
815-338-6600
to schedule an
appointment
with Centegra
Physician Care.