Monsoon illnesses to safeguard your child from; how to prevent them

Monsoons are around the corner and we're all expecting some respite from the heat! However, with monsoons, there is always an increased danger of various illnesses. Especially when it comes to kids, parents must be extremely vigilant. Not only do the rains welcome a host of diseases and infections, but it also creates an environment where the viruses thrive. The humidity and high moisture content in the air becomes a breeding ground for the microorganisms that cause illnesses.

Some of the common illnesses to beware of in the monsoons are as follows:

Also read: Strong kids vs. selfish bullies: How to tell the difference

The rainy season gives light to a number of airborne diseases including common cold and the flu infection.

While a common cold occurs due to a sudden change in the temperatures, in people with a weak immune system, flu or the influenza spreads from one person to another through aerosol droplets in the air.

Symptoms include a mild fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, body pain and in some cases gastrointestinal issues.

There are several vector-borne or mosquito-related illnesses that arise during the monsoons. Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are some of the most common mosquito-borne illnesses. Those suffering from these illnesses may develop debilitating symptoms including high fever, extreme body pain, rashes, vomiting, joint pain, fatigue and abdominal cramps. In most cases of vector-borne illnesses, medical attention is crucial. Keeping hydrated, eating nutrient-dense foods, and rest are some of the things that help treat the illnesses.

Food- and water-borne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, leptospirosis and jaundice are common during the rainy seasons. These occur due to poor sanitation and consumption of contaminated foods and water. Such illnesses can lead to wide-ranging symptoms including fever, headache, joint pain, diarrhoea and abdominal cramping.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that can also spread from contaminated food and water. It can cause inflammation in the liver and lead to symptoms like fatigue, fever, tenderness in the stomach, yellow eyes, dark-coloured urine, and a sudden loss in appetite.

Given that the monsoons raise humidity and moisture in the air, it gives light to several fungal infections. The damp conditions makes it a perfect host for various fungi, promoting their growth. That said, fungal infections become extremely common during the rainy season.

Some of the common infections include the athlete's feet, which is a contagious fungal infection affecting skin on the feet and can spread to the toenails and sometimes the hands.

Ringworms are also common occurences characterized by round, scaly, crusted patches on the skin.

Fungal nail infections can also occur affecting the fingernails or toenails.

All these fungal conditions can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene. Make sure your child avoids wearing damp clothes and keeps their feet and body clean and dry. Do not let them share items such as towels, clothes and shoes with their friends or others. Ensure they wear dry and loose-fitted clothing.

During monsoons, parents must take extra caution. While letting your child enjoy the rains and make memories is of utmost importance, it is as important to build their immune system and take preventive measures.

A healthy diet plays a significant role. Make sure your child's diet involves green wholesome veggies, fresh fruits, milk, eggs, and nuts. Ensure that they stay hydrated throughout the day. Do not let them feast too much on spicy, sugary and processed foods.

Other than that, I help them maintain good hygiene. Make sure they wash their hands frequently, especially when they touch potentially contaminated surfaces or use a restroom.

If your child gets wet in the rain, immediately change their clothes and keep them dry and warm. With mosquitoes buzzing around, dress your children with full-sleeved clothing.