Dr Rohit Kamble, Pediatrician and Neonatologist, SRV Hospital Chembur

Winter is harsh on adults as well as on children. There are some common illnesses that children may experience when the climate outside is cold. A child can be prone to respiratory issues and even rotavirus infection. It is essential for parents to take enough care of their child and make sure that they stay healthy and follow any guidelines given by the doctor.

A majority of parents are anxious regarding their child’s health during the chilly days. Though the winter season is pleasing it can be worrisome for babies. Colds, sickness bugs, and other infections are rampant in the winter season and can steal one’s peace of mind. When the temperature outside drops, children spend more time indoors, allowing for easy contact with germs and infections due to shared items. This increases the chances of infections and allergies.

Beware of these winter health problems in children

·  Cold, cough, and flu: These conditions are commonly seen in children during colder days. Winter is also the time when children easily pass on infections to others. Avoid using any over-the-counter products, it is advisable to take medication prescribed by the doctor only.

·  Respiratory health problems: Pneumonia is often seen in children during the winter. Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs. The symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other common issues are bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, strep throat, and middle ear infections. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a viral respiratory infection that, in children, ultimately leads to bronchiolitis. All of these ailments need timely intervention through a visit to your doctor rather than delaying treatment.

·  Norovirus: This is an infection that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea that starts suddenly in children. Other symptoms are cramping stomach pain and even muscle pain. It spreads through food or water that is contaminated or through contaminated surfaces. Rotavirus is generally experienced in the form of watery diarrhea and vomiting in infants and young children. This infection is highly contagious and a common cause of gastroenteritis often called stomach flu.

The last word:  It is essential for parents to make sure that children dress appropriately in layers, avoid going out when there is extreme cold, eat well, and stay active. It is also important to make sure that children learn to cover their mouth while sneezing, maintain a safe distance if unwell, and wash hands from time to time especially if in contact with potentially infected surfaces like shared items.