MONSOON ILLNESSES IN CHILDREN

The monsoons don’t only bring about pleasant skies to enjoy or puddles to play with. They might also expose you and your children to different hazards from illnesses. Your risk of being exposed to multiple viruses, bacteria, and other infections is two times higher during the monsoon than in any other season. The high moisture content in the air enables harmful microorganisms to thrive, resulting in the transmission of a number of diseases.

1. Waterborne Diseases/Gastrointestinal diseases

During the rainy season, a major part of the water sources are found to be contaminated. This goes a long way in increasing people’s susceptibility to waterborne diseases like Diarrhoea, Cholera, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A. Children are at risk since they always have a low immunity level.

Prevention:

• Always boil water and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption
• Keep your foods covered at all times and avoid consumption of outside food
• Ensure personal and environmental hygiene is maintained at all times.
• Get your children vaccinated if they are not already.

2. Mosquito-borne Diseases:

Stagnant water is found in every nook and corner during the rainy season. It is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes which are carriers of deadly diseases like Dengue, Malaria and Chikungunya. These diseases are common during this time and make children quite sick hence the need for prevention.

Prevention:

• Don’t allow water to stagnate or collect anywhere in and around the house
• Opt for adequate mosquito repellents.
• Use mosquito nets

3. Fungal Infections:

Kids can have fungal infections, especially on the skin or feet because of humidity caused by rain seasons. But in case clothes as well as shoes stay wet for a long period, then chances will be increased further.

Prevention:

• Always keep your child’s skin dry and clean.
• Ensure they wear breathable clothing made of natural fibres such as cotton.
• Regularly check their feet for fungal infections and encourage them to wear open-toe or well-ventilated footwear.

4. Airborne infections:

Respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and common colds are some diseases of the raised levels of humidity. Sudden temperature changes can also contribute to these issues.

Prevention:

• Maintain hand hygiene
• Watch for any worsening of symptoms and visit paediatrician
• Stay updated on vaccination schedule

How to Keep Your Child Safe during Monsoon?

Ensuring the health and safety of a child during the rains comes from a mix of watchful practices and informed choices. Here is what you can do:

1. Maintain Hygiene
2. Stay Dry and Comfortable
3. Healthy Diet:
4. Safe Drinking Water
5. Mosquito Protection
6. Indoor Activities
7. Boost Immunity Exercising, resting, and having a balanced diet are important for improving your child’s immune system. Some best foods that help boost their defences are fresh fruits, nuts or yoghurt.

Following these rainy season precautions, you and your child can have a hearty enjoyment in the monsoon months without fear of any hassles.