Is your child ready for camp?

Q: Last year at summer camp, my son had to be treated for a sore throat. What can I do before he goes this year?

A: “Although you can’t prevent every illness at camp, it can help to schedule an annual well-child checkup and make sure your son’s vaccines are up to date,” says Sadiya Jamal, D.O., a board-certified pediatrician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.

Kids who have a chronic illness, like allergies, ADHD or diabetes, should also visit their pediatrician before camp to ensure their problems are being well controlled.

Dr. Jamal suggests doing a phone interview with the camp. Will medical staff be on hand? How far is the camp from a hospital? Is the camp able to handle any special needs your child may have? Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association?

“Flu viruses and infectious diseases spread quickly through camps due to the close contact of campers and sharing of towels or clothes Talking about how to stay safe from infection and illness is a very important part of preparing for camp,” Dr. Jamal advises.

Here are three prevention tips parents should share with their campers: 1. Throughout the day, wash hands thoroughly, using alcohol sanitizers if soap and hot water aren’t available. 2. Put dirty clothes and towels in a separate bag, not in backpacks or sports bags with clean clothing. 3. Don’t share personal hygiene items, towels or clothing with others.

Dr. Jamal is accepting new patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s The Woodlands Clinic at 106 Vision Park Blvd. in Shenandoah.