The Ministry of Health of the Government of the Canary Islands, through the General Directorate of Healthcare Programs of the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS), recalls that it has a specific healthcare protocol to improve the health status of Saharan children who spend the summer in the Canary Islands within the ‘Holidays in Peace’ program.
Among the specific objectives of this protocol are the review of the health status of children living in refugee camps; developing preventive and health promotion activities (acquired diseases, accidents, socio-family difficulties, psychological disorders) during their stay, confirming an adequate immunization status of all Saharan children included in the program, according to the standards recommended by the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), adapted to the epidemiological needs of their place of origin and living conditions, and promoting the social integration of children during their stay in the archipelago.
This protocol states that, during healthcare for these children, special attention must be paid to accident prevention, explaining to host families the risks of poisoning, drowning in pools and the sea, falls or being run over; and the prevention of emotional disorders, reinforcing in consultations the convenience of a calm and balanced family and social environment, and involving the entire host family in aspects related to coexistence, avoiding situations that may lead to jealousy between children and facilitating communication of the Sahrawi person with their family in the camps, among other aspects.
The document also refers to the lifestyle that Saharan children should follow. Thus, a diet respectful of their culture and religious beliefs (no pork or derivatives), varied and Mediterranean (rich in fruits and vegetables) will be advised, avoiding ultra-processed foods, industrial juices, sweets, and other foods rich in refined sugars.
It also highlights that it is very important to establish holiday routines such as outdoor games or activities, relationships with friends, neighbors, and family.
The ‘Holidays in Peace’ protocol also establishes the care actions to be developed with the children in foster care within the framework of this solidarity project.
Thus, during the first SCS visit, the following will be performed: a medical history, a complete physical examination, and screening tests, among other tests. Appropriate treatment will also be given for diagnosed illnesses, the patient will be referred to the oral health unit corresponding to the health center, and, if necessary, will be referred to the hospital care service or unit for diagnosis and treatment.
In addition, the child's vaccination status will also be reviewed to, if applicable, coordinate with the responsible associations for the action to be taken according to the authorized schedule in the region of origin.
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