Despite providing relief from scorching heat, monsoons also tend to invite a host of health issues in children aged 5-15. Children commonly suffer from dengue, malaria, typhoid, cholera, respiratory infections, viral fever, and gastric problems that will need timely intervention. Parents should seek prompt medical attention without any delay to improve the quality of life of children and safeguard them during the rainy season.
Monsoon can be harsh on children. Not only adults but even children encounter various problems that can impact their overall well-being. “In monsoon, children in the age group 5-15 are more vulnerable to health problems like nasal congestion or stuffy nose, malaria, and dengue caused by Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes which breed in stagnant water (flowerpots, water containers, tires, puddles, and potholes near the house or the neighborhood area). Digestive problems, flu, cold, cough, and viral fever are also seen in the majority of children due to the change in weather, low immunity, and roadside food consumption. The risk of food and water contamination increases during monsoon due to which many children report abdominal pain, cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea indicating gastroenteritis. This condition involves inflammation of both the stomach and the intestines,” said Dr Vrushali Bichkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, Pune.
Dr Bichkar added, “Chikungunya, leptospirosis, cholera, respiratory infections such as cough, cold, bronchitis, and asthma exacerbations are common occurrences. Accidental falls and injuries due to the wet surface have also been reported by children. Many also experience skin problems like fungal infections, allergic reactions, rashes, eczema flare-ups, hives, and psoriasis. Fungal infection is also known as mycosis. It is caused by fungi like yeast and mold. These fungi are present everywhere in the environment, raising the chances of getting skin-related problems in children during monsoon. Fungal infections can include ringworm, athlete's foot, and diaper rash. To prevent the risk of several skin problems, children are advised to shower immediately after coming from outdoors, especially during heavy rainfall.”
It is the need of the hour for parents to keep certain tips in mind to ensure their child stays healthy and hearty during the monsoon. “Parents should avoid water stagnation near the house to prevent mosquito breeding. Children should wear full-sleeved clothes, use mosquito nets at home, close the window during the evening, eat a well-balanced diet, and exercise indoors. To combat respiratory infections, avoid eating ice creams or having cold drinks, take steam as suggested by the expert to manage nasal congestion, eat home-cooked food and drink boiled water, have ORS in case of dehydration or diarrhea, and avoid the street, raw, or junk food. Keep the house clean and dust-free to avoid asthma, and keep the inhaler handy. Wet floors cause falls so be careful and ensure to dry the surface. To combat skin infections, children should bathe with lukewarm water, and use products suggested by the expert,” concluded Dr Bichkar.
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