As the monsoon season envelops the Indian subcontinent, the focus on children’s health becomes paramount. Dr Sarath Babu, Paediatric Specialist, Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital in Chennai, sheds light on how the monsoon affects children’s health and offers valuable insights into managing common illnesses during this challenging period.

How Monsoon Affects Children’s Health

Dr Babu emphasised that children are more susceptible to illnesses during monsoon season due to various factors. “One of the significant factors is the increased humidity, which creates an ideal breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes. This, in turn, escalates the risk of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue,” he added. 

“Respiratory infections, including colds, flu, and pneumonia, are also more prevalent due to the damp and cool climate that fosters the growth and spread of infectious agents,” said Dr Babu. According to a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, in tropical environments, where the majority of pneumonia-related fatalities transpire, the frequency of lower respiratory tract ailments in children typically rises during the rainy season.

“Furthermore, contaminated water sources during monsoon lead to waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, commonly affecting children,” stated Dr Babu.

Also Read: Respiratory Problems In Children During Monsoon: What Parents Should Know

Strategies to Ensure Children’s Health During Monsoon 

In response to these concerns, Dr Babu outlines key strategies to ensure children’s health and well-being during the monsoon season.

Hygiene as a Priority

Maintaining proper hygiene is the cornerstone of preventing monsoon-related illnesses in children. Dr Babu recommended frequent handwashing and avoiding street food consumption to reduce the risk of infection. “Stagnant water sources, which serve as breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes, must be eliminated. To safeguard against vector-borne diseases, using mosquito nets and repellents becomes crucial,” said Dr Babu.

Clothing and Diet

“Dressing children in appropriate clothing to keep them warm and dry helps mitigate the risk of respiratory infections,” said the doctor. He added that providing a balanced and nutritious diet is paramount in boosting their immune systems, making them more resilient against infections. “Regularly disinfecting living spaces and ensuring access to clean drinking water can significantly reduce the incidence of waterborne infections,” said Dr Babu.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Dr Babu underscored the importance of regular health check-ups during the monsoon season. “Scheduled visits to healthcare clinics enable health professionals to monitor children’s health closely and catch any potential issues early, leading to timely intervention and prevention of illnesses,” he added.

Also Read: Expert Explains The Importance of Regular Health Check-Ups

Educating Children

“Teaching children about personal hygiene practices plays a pivotal role in safeguarding their health,” said Dr Babu. He added that encouraging them to cover their mouths while sneezing or coughing can help contain the spread of infections. Such practices instil good habits that can protect not only the children themselves but also those around them.

Dr Babu emphasised the significance of proactive measures and education in ensuring children’s health during the monsoon season. By adopting these strategies, parents and caregivers can create a safe and healthy environment for children to thrive.

Conclusion

The monsoon season brings both beauty and challenges, especially for children’s health. Dr Babu’s recommendations to prioritise hygiene, clothing, diet, regular health check-ups, and education offer a comprehensive approach to tackling these challenges head-on. As we navigate the complexities of the monsoon, let us be proactive in safeguarding our children’s health, ensuring they have a joyous and illness-free season ahead.

[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]

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