Q With the recent hot weather, I’m worried that my six-year-old daughter may become dehydrated.

How do I know if she’s okay?

Charlotte

A As summer approaches, and with the promise of more hot weather, it is important for us all to stay well hydrated, especially children.

I would encourage you to give your daughter a bottle of water or juice to take with her when she’s playing out, and to make sure she has a drink with meals.

Normally our brain will tell us when we are dry and to seek out fluids, but by providing regular drinks and making sure that she has gone for a wee at least a few times in the day, you can prevent her becoming dry.

Make sure she also has a high factor sunscreen on and avoids being in direct sun at the hottest time of the day.

Q Do I need to have vaccines when I’m going abroad on holiday? I’m fit and well and they are a lot of money.

Tom, 25

A Depending on where you are going, there are various vaccination schedules, some of which have to start quite some time before you actually go on holiday. A good website for guidance is that of the World Health Organisation.

You can get these vaccines through your GP or at a private clinic, and in both settings you would be expected to pay.

Although the amount may seem a lot, it is far preferable to becoming ill abroad, which may ruin your holiday and where you may not be able to guarantee a level of healthcare as good as that in the UK.

In addition, some travel insurance companies insist on proof of your vaccinations before they provide you with cover.

If you have a question for Dr Zak, you can email him via askdoctorzak@gmail.com, see his website doctorzak.co.uk or find him on Twitter @AskDoctorZak.

Dr Uddin’s advice is provided in good faith and in accordance with currently accepted evidence. However, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of a GP, or other qualified health provider, regarding a medical condition.