7 Reasons Why Monsoon is the Season for More Child Illnesses guide by child specialist in Ahmedabad

 

The first refreshing rain after the scorching summer months can bring immense joy. The beauty of grey skies, the sight of rain-soaked greenery, the pleasure of sipping hot tea, and the delight of eating crisp cakes are just a few things that make the monsoon season in India special. For children, splashing in puddles adds to the excitement. While the monsoon provides a much-needed respite from the intense heat, it also brings various health challenges, particularly for kids.

The rainy season is not without its downsides. Waterlogging creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to an increase in mosquito-borne diseases, and the high humidity can cause various skin issues. Consuming street food results in digestive problems, and colds and flu become more prevalent. Here are seven reasons why the monsoon season can lead to more illnesses in children and how to manage them effectively, recommended by a child specialist in Ahmedabad.

7 reasons for more child illness in monsoon as per best pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad

While the monsoon season brings joy and relief, it raises several health risks, particularly for children. Here’s how:

• Waterborne Disease:

During the rainy season, many water sources become polluted, seriously increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems. Consuming polluted water or food can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues, which can be dangerous for young children. According to a pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad, ensuring safe drinking water and practising good hygiene is crucial to protecting them from these illnesses during the monsoon season.

• Mosquito-Borne Disease:

During the rainy season, stuffy water collects everywhere, creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes that carry dangerous diseases like dengue and malaria. These illnesses are common during this time and can seriously affect children, making prevention crucial. As per a child specialist in Ahmedabad, taking steps such as using mosquito nets, applying insect repellent, and eradicating standing water around homes can help protect children from mosquito bites and the diseases they transmit.

• Respiratory Infections:

High humidity levels during the rainy season can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and common colds. Sudden temperature changes also contribute to these issues. Children with a history of breathing problems are especially vulnerable and may experience more severe symptoms. According to the best pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad, ensuring that children stay warm and dry, avoiding sudden exposure to cold weather, and using humidifiers can help mitigate these risks.

• Skin Problems:

High humidity can lead to fungal infections during the rainy season, especially on the skin and feet. The risk increases if clothes and shoes remain wet for elongated periods. It’s important to keep children dry by changing wet clothes and shoes promptly, ensuring they wear breathable fabrics, and maintaining good hygiene. Regularly drying and airing out footwear can also help reduce the risk of these infections.

• Digestive Issue:

Eating unhygienic street food and drinking unpurified water during the monsoons can upset your child’s stomach. While street food may be tempting, it often poses a risk of infections due to being prepared and stored in unsanitary conditions. According to the pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad, it’s best to avoid street food during the rainy season and ensure they drink only purified water. Preparing homemade snacks and meals can also help protect them from gastrointestinal issues.

• Cold And Flu:

Temperature changes and the damp environment during the monsoon season make children more susceptible to viral infections like the common cold and flu. These infections spread rapidly in crowded places such as schools and play areas. To protect children, encourage frequent hand washing, teach them to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and ensure they stay dry and warm.

• Leptospirosis:

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection, spreads through water contaminated with the urine of infected animals. Children are at risk when playing in puddles or walking through floodwaters. To prevent leptospirosis, ensure children avoid contact with stagnant water and wear waterproof boots if walking through contaminated areas. Promptly cleaning and covering any cuts or wounds can also reduce the risk of infection.

How to keep your child safe during monsoon- child specialist in Ahmedabad

• Maintain Hygiene:

Teach your child to wash their hands with soap and water before meals and after playing outside. This simple habit can prevent many infections. Establish the proper handwashing technique to ensure their hands are cleaned each time.

• Stay Dry and Comfortable:

It’s essential to dress your child appropriately for the rainy weather. Choose monsoon wear like waterproof jackets and quick-drying clothes. Avoid letting your child stay in wet clothes for too long. Opt for monsoon shoes such as waterproof sandals or well-ventilated shoes to keep their feet dry. If their clothes get wet, change them promptly to prevent skin irritation and infections.

• Healthy Diet:

A balanced diet boosts your child’s immune system. As per a child specialist in Ahmedabad, encourage them to eat fresh fruits, vegetables, and hot-cooked meals, especially during the rainy season. Avoid street and junk food, which can cause stomach infections and dehydration. Include foods like soups, yogurt, oats, and fruits, which are beneficial during monsoon to keep them healthy and strong.

• Safe Drinking Water:

Ensure your child always drinks clean, filtered, or boiled water. Protecting them from waterborne diseases is crucial during this season. Discourage them from drinking water or beverages from external sources, as they may contain contaminants.

• Mosquito Protection:

A pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad recommended mosquito repellents or creams to prevent mosquito bites. Dress your child in long-sleeved clothing and full-length pants. Protect their sleeping area from mosquitoes by using nets or screens. Regularly check for puddles and stagnant water around your home to prevent mosquito breeding.

• Indoor Activities:

Keep children indoors to prevent infections. Engage them with indoor games and activities to ensure their safety and enjoy quality time together.

• Boost Immunity:

Regular exercise, adequate rest, and a balanced diet are key to improving your child’s immune system. They include immune-boosting foods like oranges, nuts, and yogurt to strengthen their defences.

Some Additional tips recommended by the best pediatric doctor in Ahmedabad to prevent child illness during the rainy season:

• Encourage children to avoid puddles to prevent fungal infections.
• Ensure wet hair is dried immediately to prevent colds.
• Use antiseptic wipes for quick hand cleaning.
• Keep nails trimmed to minimise dirt accumulation.
• Opt for natural mosquito repellents for sensitive skin.
• Avoid overcrowded places to reduce infection risk.
• Regularly disinfect toys and play areas.

Wrapping Up:

In conclusion, ensuring children’s health during the rainy season involves simple yet crucial steps. From maintaining hygiene with handwashing and clean water to dressing appropriately and boosting immunity through nutritious diets, these measures can significantly reduce the risk of infections and illnesses. Protecting against mosquitoes, avoiding crowded places, and keeping indoor environments clean are essential. By implementing these practices recommended by a child specialist in Ahmedabad, parents can help their children stay healthy and active and enjoy the rainy season safely.