CDC: Children Bringing Measles Home After International Travels

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Travelers to international destinations seem to be bringing back with themselves more than the memories of places visited. According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in just the first two months of the year, 13 people have contracted measles in the US due to international travel. What is of concern is most of them are children. In the US measles was declared as eradicated in 2000. However due to international travels when travelers return from places where the disease is endemic they are bringing the infection with them. In January and February alone there have been 692 cases of measles reported, 87 percent of which were associated with cases contracted outside the U.S. There were 292 cases where measles were directly contracted outside the U.S, with 159 in US residents. Of these, 30 percent were children between 6 to 23 months. CDC report that while children are eligible for vaccination before international travel, none of the kids infected were vaccinated for measles.
The report stated, “Young children are at greater risk for severe measles, death, or sequelae such as subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Although all seven children had been eligible for vaccination before travel, none had received measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, the only measles-containing vaccine currently available in the United States….”
Of the 29 measles cases reported during January and February, 2011, a total of 28 were import-associated, of which 16 (57%) were classified as imported cases; 13 of the imported cases (81%) were among U.S. residents. Of these 13 cases, seven (54%) occurred in children aged 6 to 23 months. All seven patients had recently traveled internationally; they were residents of Massachusetts (two patients), Texas (one), New York (one), Pennsylvania (one), Washington (one), and California (one).”
Four of the seven kids needed hospitalization, two for diarrhea and dehydration, 1 for pneumonia and another for fever. While the kids did recover, the researchers note that it is very important for children traveling abroad to get vaccination with children 12 months and over, needing two doses of the MMR vaccine separated by 28 days. For infants between 6 to 11 months one dose of the vaccine is needed. For doctors too, the researchers cautioned that when doing the check up of kids who have recently traveled abroad they should keep signs and symptoms of measles in mind. Measles is known the world over by the defining red spots formed all over the body of the infected person. However the initial symptoms of the disease may not be the red spots but cough, runny nose, red eyes and high fever. This is followed by the appearance of Koplik’s spots, inside the mouth. These are red spots with blue or white centers. The characteristic red spots then appear on the forehead followed by rest of the body. In most developed countries the vaccination against measles is MMR given to kids after the age of 18 months as before that they already have antibodies within their body transmitted from the mother during pregnancy. The vaccination is repeated between the age of four and five to increase immunity of the kid. In developing countries however, the vaccination to kids is given after 6 months of a child’s birth. As the disease is still endemic in these countries WHO has recommended the earlier dosage with one dose at 6 months and another at 9 months of age. Once infected, a person with measles is usually ordered restricted movement so as to come in contact with the least number of people. Also, it takes from 2 to 3 weeks in average for a person to recover and for the red rashes to go. It is thus wise to take the vaccinations before any travel rather than make the kids go through the troublesome infection. SOURCE

Junior Rangers to Inspire Kids on Crystal Alaska Cruises

Alaska Cruise Season is almost among us and with multi-generational family bookings on the rise, Crystal Cruises is putting a special focus on “family-friendliness” for its Alaska summer series, with all-ages excursions, an extended Junior Activities program, and an alliance with the National Park Service for a “Junior Rangers” program. When Crystal Symphony sails through Glacier Bay this May-August, park rangers will come aboard to lead kid-friendly activities and presentations about the area’s natural history.  Through interactive projects and activity books, children and teens can become park Junior Rangers, earning official badges and certificates.
“The adult rangers ask kids to pledge to ‘help take care of special places,'” explains Vice President, Entertainment Bret Bullock.  “Such innovative and collaborative education gets kids personally invested in the beautiful destinations they’re visiting.”
Complementing this program will be extended hours of stimulating, tiered, on-board activities for children aged 3-17, led by Crystal-staffed Junior Activities Directors.  Kids can meet for board games or arts and crafts in Crystal’s Fantasia playroom, or for Sony PlayStation® 3, Nintendo Wii™ or Xbox 360™ videogames in the Waves arcade, or participate in behind-the-scenes happenings like galley tours, scavenger hunts, sushi-making classes, and backstage costume “dress-up.” Families can also take advantage of Hollywood Theatre movies, Library DVD and book check-outs, piano lessons, babysitting services, or favorite “finicky eater” foods throughout the ship.  On land, there are dozens of shore excursions designated as “family friendly.” Crystal Cruises is offering nine 12-day San Francisco round-trips visit Victoria, Vancouver, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway/Haines, Ketchikan and either Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay.  Full per-person, Two-for-One fares start at $4,650, with free air (or $400 discount) from 24 North American cities, plus $500 per-person “All Inclusive—As You Wish” spending credits.  Crystal’s Family Memories Program offers additional credits, family photos, and complimentary “third berth” children’s accommodation.  Last-minute, standby fares may also be available. Alaska offers a wealth of learning opportunities for vacationers of all ages.  Cruising is a great way to see many different locations, while staying in the comfort of a floating palace!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Popular Butterfly Jungle Is Back!

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In preparation for San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s annual springtime event – Butterfly Jungle, Sarah Jenkins the park’s keeper, released hundreds of butterflies as they emerged from pupae on Thursday. Good news for visitors looking to visit the event, this year it runs from April 9 through May 8, one week longer than usual! Once immersed in Butterfly Jungle, move slowly, allowing thousands of vibrant wings to flap gently past or perhaps land on a shoulder or head. Wear bright colors to attract butterflies. Approximately 40 species of butterflies and 15 species of African birds will flutter about in the Hidden Jungle aviary. Along the journey to metamorphosis, watch for an opportunity to meet other invertebrates up close including hissing cockroaches, praying mantises and lady bugs. Find the emperor scorpion, back by popular demand, before entering Butterfly Jungle. Try on wings, antennae, and compound eyes and taste “butterfly nectar” at the “What’s it Like to Be A Butterfly?” station. The 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park (historically referred to as Wild Animal Park) is operated by the not-for-profit San Diego Zoo and includes a 900-acre native species reserve. The organization focuses on conservation and research work around the globe, educates millions of individuals a year about wildlife and maintains accredited horticultural, animal, library and photo collections. The Zoo also manages the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research. The important conservation and science work of these entities is supported in part by The Foundation of the Zoological Society of San Diego. Butterfly Jungle is included with admission. Admission is $40 for adults and $30 for children ages 3 to 11. Children 2 and younger are admitted free.

SeaWorld Discovery Cove Grand Reef Set To Open in June

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Discovery Cove, the limited-admission ‘boutique park’ at Sea World in Orlando, is on track to open their first expansion since opening in 2000. The Grand Reef, which is scheduled to open in the first two weeks of June, is a one million gallon, 2.5 acre artificial saltwater reef that will showcase 125 different species including sharks, rays, urchins and venomous lion fish. Guests to the Grand Reef will have the opportunity to walk, swim and snorkel with the marine life for an up close and personal view. Discovery Cove has developed a unique experience, for adventurous visitors to the Grand Reef.  For an additional fee of $59 per person, guests 10-years and older can go on a ‘SeaVenture’.  The thrilling hour long tour includes a 20 minute underwater walk.  Reef hikers will each wear a 75-pound dive helmet, but don’t let the weight scare you off.  The helmets feel like they weigh a manageable 15-pounds in the water. Once open, the Grand Reef will replace the existing reef at Discovery Cove.  The older attraction will be repurposed as a fresh water exhibit, to be unveiled in 2012. The expansion will not result in a huge increase in the number of visitors admitted to Discovery Cove each day.  The guest list is currently limited to about 1000 patrons daily.  Discovery Cove has been established as a boutique park that offers a more luxurious and personal experience for guests who are willing to pay a little more for an upgrade in quality and exclusivity. In addition to the Grand Reef, guests to Discovery Cove enjoy opportunities to interact with dolphins, hand feed exotic birds in the free-flight aviary, take a relaxing drift down the Wind-Away River, snorkel and lounge on the beach.  Breakfast, lunch and unlimited snacks are included in the price of admission.  It is a relaxing day free from the crowds and long lines experienced at other theme parks. Due to the limited number of guests admitted each day, reservations are required. – Jen R, Staff Writer SOURCE

Fabulous Travel gear! ~ Antler’s Liquis Lightweight Luggage

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When you are traveling with kids every pound counts where your luggage is concerned. After some unfortunate flights during nasty weather, we have started to switch our luggage over to hard-sided cases. For years it has been long believed that these cases, while much tougher, weighed quite a bit more. Now there is good news!  That appears to be changing. Antler Luggage’s gorgeous Liquis line promises to be both lightweight and tough! Starting at a mere 4.4lbs, for the Liquis 22″ model($299), the polycarbonate collection includes 3 models; 27″ that weighs 6.6lbs ($349) and also a 33″ case that weighs 8.4lbs ($399). The bags include travel friendly features such as four smooth-gliding wheels, leather handles and built-in combination locks.  

Disney Cruise Line Announces New Itineraries for 2012

Disney Cruise Lines has announced some awesome new itineraries for the 2012 season.  Families can now take in the sights at exciting new ports-of-call on cruises departing from New York City, Seattle, Galveston, Texas and Los Angeles. It’s not all about Florida and the Caribbean anymore.  Disney’s heading to Hawaii – and your family can go with them! Departing from Los Angeles, California, and cruising for 15 nights, you can bask in the aloha glow onboard Disney Wonder while visiting
  • Hilo, Hawai’i
  • Kahului, Maui
  • Honolulu, O’ahu
  • Nawiiwili, Kauai
  • Ensenada, Mexico
If glaciers and wildlife are more your speed, you may prefer one of Disney’s four 7-night Alaska cruise itineraries, also on board Disney Wonder, departs from Seattle and Washington with stops at
  • Tracy Arm
  • Skagway
  • Juneau
  • Ketchikan
  • Victoria, British Columbia
Departing Galveston, Texas, your family can enjoy a 7-night experience onboard Disney Magic in the Western Caribbean, while traveling to:
  • Grand Cayman
  • Costa Maya, Mexico
  • Cozumel, Mexico
And enjoy 3 magical days at sea. New York City is a convenient departure point for many families and as a result; cruisers can take their pick from a selection on board Disney Magic that includes:
  • 8-Night Bahamian
  • 5-Night Canada/New England Coast
  • 2-Day Weekend Getaways
On the Bahamian Cruise you’ll enjoy stops in
  • Port Canaveral, Florida
  • Nassau
  • Disney’s Castaway Cay
And 4 days basking in the sun while at sea On the Canada/New England Coast Cruise families enjoy 2 days at sea and stops in
  • Halifax, Nova Scotia
  • Saint John, New Brunswick
For families that are more interested in relaxing than sightseeing, Disney offers 2-Day Weekend Getaways at sea, filled with the magic that only a Disney Cruise can provide. All of these fantastic new itineraries become available at 8:00 a.m. EDT on April 8th, 2011.  Hey, that’s tomorrow morning!   – Jen R, Staff Writer

Air Transat Wins the Family Friendly Airline Award!

Congratulations to Air Transat on receiving the Family Friendly Airline Award! The prize was awarded by the Kids First Fund to carriers that provide additional services and extra comfort to children and their parents. Air Transat came out on top as travellers from all over the world voted in a first-ever poll on Facebook to select the best airline for family travel. Nearly 2,000 Facebook friends considered the services provided by six airlines: Air Transat, Emirates, Jetstar, Kingfisher, Qatar and TAM. Air Transats Kids Club finished first with 49% of the votes. Travellers obviously appreciate its services for children, which include a welcome kit, dedicated airport counters, prize drawings, and an onboard birthday celebration.
“All of the airlines in the poll provide exceptional services to cater to the needs of family travellers. Its very apparent by the comments posted by Facebook friends that these consumers have a strong bond with their favourite airline for family travel,” said Jay Sorensen, president of the Kids First Fund. “In particular, Air Transat has tapped a strong reservoir of support through its Kids Club initiative.” “For nearly 25 years now, children and families have been a top priority for Air Transat. As Canada’s number one holiday airline, we make it part of daily life to surpass customer expectations. And we have delivered the goods on many fronts with the Kids’ Club and our partnerships with children’s charities in Canada and overseas,” said Allen B. Graham, President and CEO of Air Transat.
Parents who are flying with infants will also be happy to know that Air Transat also has change tables in the washrooms and bassinets to accommodate a sleeping infant. (Please call ahead to make that their is availability on your flight)

Two for One Opening Weekend at KOA

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Unfurl the tent and air the mothballs out of the trailer.  Camping season is just around the corner and Kampgrounds Of America (KOA) is set to kick things off with their 8th annual fundraising opener:  Come Kamp & Care With Us Weekend, May 13th and 14th. It’s two for the price of one!  KOA campers, who pay for their night’s stay on Friday, May 13th, are treated to a free night on Saturday, May 14th. Throughout the weekend, campers have the opportunity to participate in fun activities and events designed to raise awareness and funds for KOA Care Camps. KOA Care Camps have 43 locations across Canada and the United States, offering a “true summer camp experience,” to children battling cancer.  The camps are fully equipped with medications, medical equipment and knowledgeable staff, to offer a specialized environment for the kids. When cancer strikes a child their siblings feel it too.  So, brothers and sisters are invited to attend summer camp, to allow sick children and their healthy siblings to enjoy the experience together.  Everyone is able to leave the stress of illness at the hospital and take back a piece of childhood. KOA Care Camps are staffed by professionals who volunteer their time for the kids.  Nevertheless, summer camps come with unavoidable expenses, particularly camps of such a special nature.  Utilities, meals, recreation and program supplies, and medical supplies are among the necessities that need to be financed to make camp a reality for as many children as possible. By offering visitors a free night on opening weekend, KOA gives their guests the opportunity to ‘pay it forward’ by donating to KOA Care Camps and giving some very deserving children the chance to lose themselves in a week of carefree summer fun. Over the past eight years, Come Kamp & Care With Us Weekend has become a tradition for a lot of families.  Participating campgrounds fill up quickly, so act fast to reserve your site.  A free night of camping, a weekend of fun and a wonderful cause; it’s a good, better, best situation that is not to be missed. – Jen R, Staff Writer

Disney World Opens Mickey Mouse Meet & Greet at New Town Square Theater

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Families planning a trip to Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Florida will be happy to know that Mickey Mouse and the Disney Princesses have a new home at the Town Square Theater. The Town Square Theater, which replaces the Judges Tent, officially opened April 1st as a new space for the Disney Storybook Princesses and Mickey Mouse meet and greet. The new theater is equipped with FASTPASS, a Disney feature that allows visitors to save a place for themselves in line rather than wait it out in person.  FASTPASS frees guests to enjoy more of the park in a single day and waste less time standing in lines. Disney pulled out all the stops when they designed the decor for the Town Square Theater.  When you enter, Backstage Magic with Mickey Mouse is to your right and the princesses Aurora, Belle and Cinderella are to your left.  The indoor queuing area is spacious and beautifully appointed.  Don’t be shocked when the wall posters jump to life, they are actually animated. Mickey’s dressing room is a masterpiece, with every detail imaginable.  It really feels as though you’re getting the inside scoop, backstage at Mickey’s magic show.  Photopass photos taken with this beautiful new backdrop will make treasured souvenirs for years to come. In addition to being home to the world’s most sought after mouse and three princesses, you’ll find Tony’s Restaurant, in the lobby and Curtain Call Collectibles at the exit to the meet and greet.  So you can grab some lunch, have your picture taken with Mickey Mouse, rub shoulders with Princess Aurora and buy your Mini Mouse ears, all in one fell swoop. Convenience, a fantastic atmosphere, and a celebrity mouse; the Magic Kingdom has ticked all the boxes with the Town Square Theater. – Jen R, Staff Writer PHOTOS via SOURCE

Family Travel in Alaska: Answer the Call of the Wild

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The Call of the Wild:  an insatiable lust for rugged landscapes and untouched wilderness.  Those who answer the call, look to Alaska as a Mecca, a place that draws in the most adventurous of us, like a tractor beam. That nagging urge to leave suburbia behind is not silenced when we have young children, but practicality makes it difficult to head its beck and call.  Thankfully, there are ways to partake in Alaska’s unbridled splendour without asking your two-year-old to help you portage the canoe. Cruises are a very popular way to experience Alaska.  From the comfort of a floating hotel you can soak in the scenery along the rugged coastline.  Shore excursions, to popular locations, punctuate the journey. Cruises are a relaxing way to travel with the whole family.  They accommodate all ages and abilities and offer shipboard activities to keep everybody busy.  Investigate the different cruise lines to discover which ship will suite your family best. If you would prefer a self-directed travel itinerary, there is a wide array of family friendly adventures to be had. You can go sightseeing anywhere, but in Alaska you can go flightseeing.  Throughout the state, air services offer tourists the opportunity to soar above the landscape in small, propeller driven planes.  Don’t be scared, small planes are way more fun than jets.  Drink in the sights from high above and enjoy a new prospective on the glaciers, mountains and fjords. Once your family has taken in the overhead view, you can get up close and personal by spending a day on a wildlife cruise.  A number of companies offer these excursions.  You’ll undoubtedly be able to connect with one that fits into your itinerary. One company, Kenai Fjords Tours, offers full and half day wildlife cruises departing from Seward.  Float through the fjords and pass stunning glaciers.  Wildlife abounds and cruisers are likely to spot whales, harbour seals, sea lions, otters, puffins, bald eagles and a variety of other birds, relaxed and at home in their natural habitat.  Cruises are available from the beginning of June through the end of August. But Alaska isn’t just an expanse of unsettled wilderness; there are cities to explore too.  If your trip takes you to Fairbanks, the whole family will enjoy a day at the Pioneer Park (formerly Alaskaland). Pioneer Park is a theme park where guests can be entertained while immersing themselves in the history and culture of the state.  Park attractions include a riverboat, native village, gold rush town, and three museums.  Take a spin on the 40 foot antique carousel.  Savour the flavours of an old-school salmon bake.  Pioneer Park has something for everyone. The sun never sets on Alaska, in the summer, and Anchorage has plenty to keep the family busy on those long, long summer days. -The Anchorage Museum is a fantastic facility that includes an interactive science center for children and the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, for a dose of art and culture. – If you’re interested in learning about the first peoples of the area, plan to spend some time at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. -The Alaska Zoo is sure to go over well with the kids and provide a fun day for all ages. -Anchorage is also home to the Alaska Botanical Garden.    We don’t often associate green thumbs with such a harsh climate, but amid the facility’s 110 acres of boreal forest is 11 acres of beautifully cultivated gardens and trails.  Take a family stroll and discover the flora of the state. The state of Alaska does not impose any sales tax but keep your eyes peeled, as you travel around, for municipal taxes.  Some cities impose their own sales taxes, though others remain tax free, so plan your souvenir shopping wisely.  Anchorage and Fairbanks fall into the tax free category. Beautiful scenery, quirky little towns and fantastic fishing spots make road tripping a great way to see the best of Alaska.  The two main highways through the state, the Glenn Highway and the Parks Highway, make travel and navigation easy.  Take the time to plan a route that will allow you to meander through the small towns, checkout the larger cities and see the sights and spot the wildlife in between. The desire to visit Alaska comes with a sense of urgency.  There is a palpable risk that the unspoiled may become spoiled and the pristine will, literally, melt away.  The state is a vast bastion of natural beauty but stands to be hard hit by the effects of climate change and the degradation that goes along with the acquisition and sale of natural commodities. Alaska has a lot to offer the whole family.  Don’t hesitate, let this be the summer you answer the call. – Jen R, Staff Writer