Children’s Health: Staying Safe During Unpredictable Weather
Respiratory diseases can be dangerous, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. Doctor Huynh Tran An Khuong, the Medical Manager of VNVC Vaccination System, emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to prevent respiratory infections in young children.
Summer weather can be particularly challenging as high humidity and heavy rain create ideal environments for pathogens to thrive. This has led to a 50% increase in respiratory infections among children admitted to the Department of Pediatrics at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City compared to May. The typical symptoms seen in hospitalized children include cough, wheezing, and high fever.
To protect children from respiratory infections, it is essential to avoid contact with rainwater by not going out during heavy rain or bathing in it. If children do get wet during rain, it is important to dry them thoroughly and maintain stable body temperature by drinking hot milk or ginger tea before taking a bath. Additionally, limiting exposure to rainwater can help prevent illnesses.
Adequate hydration is also crucial for preventing respiratory infections. Children should drink enough water to keep their throat and nose moist and support healthy lung function. A well-balanced diet rich in micronutrients is also essential for boosting immunity. Breastfeeding is recommended for babies up to 24 months of age, while older children should consume a variety of foods from all nutrient groups.
Substances like cigarette smoke, household chemicals, and cooking fumes can exacerbate respiratory infections, especially among children with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Therefore, minimizing exposure to smoke pollution and maintaining good indoor air quality is important.
Avoiding close contact with sick individuals can also help prevent the spread of infectious diseases among children. Proper hygiene practices such as washing hands before eating and after using the toilet are crucial for reducing the risk of infection caused by pathogens.
Maintaining proper hygiene practices along with staying hydrated, eating a nutritious diet, getting vaccinated on schedule, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory infections among children.
If a child develops any symptoms of illness such as fever or cough, seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional rather than self-treating is recommended.
