Category : Healthcare
Monsoon is the season we all love to enjoy rainfall. However, no matter how enjoyable the rainy season is, it brings many diseases and challenges, especially when you have children at home to protect. Here are some tips for taking care of children during the monsoons.
A Healthy Diet and Proper Hydration
- The rainy season is a breeding ground for water-borne diseases such as diarrhoea and typhoid fever. Always use filtered or boiled water.
- Keep food covered and not exposed. Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly with salt or warm water to remove bacteria. Consume freshly prepared foods.
- During the rainy season, provide children with hot foods, healthy vegetable soups, and hot drinks like milk to prevent throat problems.
- Ensure diets are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, especially vitamin C to boost immunity.
- Include probiotics like yogurt, buttermilk, and homemade pickles to strengthen the digestive system and nutrient absorption.
- Herbal drinks made from herbs and spices like tulsi, cinnamon, and ginger are soothing and high in antioxidants, helping boost immunity and digestion.
Keeping the House Clean and Dry
- Ensure the children’s room is clean, dry, and well-ventilated.
- Regularly clean the floor with baby-friendly disinfectants.
- Avoid stagnant water in houseplants or nearby areas as it promotes mosquito breeding.
- Check that the home drainage system is functional and properly sealed to reduce the risk of infection.
Proper Clothing Habits
- Damp clothing can lead to fungal infections during this season. Opt for loose cotton clothing instead of synthetic fabrics for better absorption and breathability.
- Keep children’s socks, uniforms, raincoats, and shoes clean and dry.
- Encourage the use of umbrellas or raincoats when outdoors.
- Avoid wearing wet socks or shoes.
Diaper Care
- Frequent urination is common during the monsoon. Change diapers frequently to prevent wetness and fungal infections.
Precautions against Mosquitoes
- Mosquitoes breed during the rainy season, making children prone to infections like dengue and malaria. Dress children in loose, full-sleeve clothing and use mosquito nets for protection.
- Child-safe mosquito repellent creams can be used on older kids.
Prevent Diarrhoea
- Rains and floods can contaminate drinking water, leading to diarrhoeal infections. Use filtered or boiled water for drinking.
- Frequent handwashing is crucial to prevent diarrhoea. Avoid outside food and opt for fresh home-cooked meals.
Proper Vaccination
- Check your child’s immunization schedule with your doctor and inquire about monsoon-specific vaccines to prevent waterborne diseases.
- During the rainy season, diseases like flu, hepatitis, typhoid, malaria, and dengue increase. Vaccinate children to protect them from infections.
- Keep sick parents or relatives away from the child.
Let children enjoy the monsoon while taking necessary precautions and maintaining appropriate behaviour.