Young children are the toughest to monitor during this period because they often do not pay attention to early warning signs of illness and tend to alert their parents or guardians only when the sickness has already taken hold. Here are some of the top illnesses and other health conditions suffered by young children during winter months.
Any season is well known to carry a higher risk of illness for the most vulnerable members of our society, the children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. It is a period where parents become more vigilant about bundling up, and have to ensure that the air in the household is healthy.
Some Tips Keep Your Baby Healthy
Cleanliness first
Many of the viruses mentioned here tend to spread like wildfire in schools and homes because of secondhand contact with germs.
It is important to teach your kids to thoroughly wash their hands before eating and after using the bathroom. If you already have a sick child in the home, try to keep them away from the others and disinfect all surfaces they come in contact with to reduce the risk of infecting others. Germs can linger days after the surface has been touched so be rigorous in your efforts.
Bundle up in case of a fever
Keeping them covered whenever you go out is very important when the cold front moves in. Even slight shivering can lower your immunity and make you more vulnerable to the cold and the flu. Pay special attention to the head, face and neck, as this is where most body heat escapes.
Have your children wear mittens rather than gloves to allow fingers to share warmth. Loose fitting, lightweight layers should be worn over the body. In case of hypothermia, it’s crucial to immediately prevent further heat loss and gently warm up the person.
Use a humidifier during cold days
Low humidity encourages the easier spread of airborne germs, aggravates the mucous membranes in the nose, throat and lungs, and dries the skin. The most effective way to combat these challenges when you have to spend most of your time indoors is to make use of a humidifier for baby.
Higher humidity will help weigh down airborne germs, soothe respiratory irritations and ease dry skin problems. Babies that have trouble sleeping often experience more comfort when humidifiers are run in their nurseries.
Do not touch
Cold and flu viruses are often spread through contact with germ-contaminated surfaces. Children often touch these surfaces and then bring the germs up to their face unconsciously. Training your child to avoid touching their face is a good way to reduce the risk of infection. At the same time, try to discourage them from sharing utensils like cups and spoons with others.
Exercise
Moderate exercise undertaken on a regular basis is a good idea as that helps keep your immune and other body systems in good working order. Studies have shown that strict regimen can help reduce the occurrence of cold and flu infections by as much as half.
Encourage your child to go out and play outside during warmer days, even if for a few minutes. When indoors, clear space for them to keep active. Even limited daily exposure to natural light can help improve their mood and immune system. Make sure they don’t overexert themselves, and if they’re staying out for long, that they come in frequently for a drink of water.
Moisturize the skin
Dry skin is best treated topically for visible results. While it may be tempting to spend as much time as possible in the shower or bath, this can be counterproductive.
Doctors recommend spending no more than ten minutes in the bath or shower and using warm rather than hot water. As soon as you dry off, while your skin is still damp but not wet, apply plenty of moisturizer. Use thicker creams that can provide a strong barrier to the dry air. For those with dry skin problems, applying moisturizer more than once a day is a good idea.
