Monsoon Illness in Children: Common Ailments and Practical Tips for Prevention and Care

Every year, monsoon-related illnesses affect 1 in every 3 children across the country! As parents, we want nothing more than to shield our kids from the health hazards that lurk during this wet season. However, you'd naturally be worried about your child's well-being. 

With the rainy season just around the corner, are you prepared to shield your little ones from these lurking health threats? In this blog, we'll explore the most common monsoon illnesses affecting children like nasal congestion, influenza, severe abdominal pain, and gastroenteritis. We’ll also provide you with practical tips to safeguard your health. 

Understanding Monsoon Illnesses in Children

During the monsoon season, parents and caregivers face numerous challenges as they witness a rise in health issues among children. This time of year makes children more prone to infections due to a weakened immune system, leading them to experience various ailments. Now, let's delve into some of the most commonly encountered ones.

Nasal Congestion

The monsoon season often brings about a common issue among children - nasal congestion. This condition is commonly referred to as a stuffy nose. With the increase in humidity levels, nasal passages tend to swell, causing discomfort and difficulty in breathing for kids. Common symptoms are runny or blocked nose, frequent sneezing, and mild unease.

Practical tips for prevention and care:

1. Maintain good hygiene by regularly washing hands and avoiding contact with sick individuals.
2. Use a humidifier in the child's room to keep the air moist and prevent dryness.
3. Administer nasal saline drops to help clear nasal passages gently.
4. Ensure your child remains adequately hydrated, as it can help thin mucus and ease nasal congestion.
5. Seek medical advice if the congestion worsens or persists.

Influenza (Flu)

The monsoon season is infamous for the rapid transmission of influenza, commonly referred to as the flu. This highly contagious illness is characterized by symptoms such as fever, body aches, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. Children are particularly vulnerable to contracting influenza due to their developing immune systems and regular interactions in schools and recreational areas.

Practical tips for prevention and care:

1. Parents are advised to have their children vaccinated against seasonal flu, as it reduces the risk of infection.
2. Teaching children to practice proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette is essential. They should be encouraged to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
3. It is important to ensure they rest and consume ample fluids to support your child's fight against the infection.
4. Over-the-counter medications can often provide relief for symptoms. However, it is important to always consult a healthcare professional before giving any medication to children.
5. If a child exhibits severe symptoms like a persistent high fever or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Severe Abdominal Pain

During the monsoon, water contamination may lead to an increased risk of waterborne diseases. These illnesses can cause severe abdominal pain in children. Bacterial and viral infections have the possibility to cause gastrointestinal problems, including instances of food poisoning and stomach flu.

Practical tips for prevention and care:

1. It is important to ensure that children drink clean and safe water. Provide them with boiled or purified water.
2. To maintain a healthy gut and boost immunity, follow a balanced diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
3. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food, particularly during the monsoon season.
4. To support your child's recovery, encourage them to rest and increase their fluid intake. Resting aids in the healing process.
5. If severe abdominal pain continues or gets worse, it is advisable to seek medical consultation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is a prevalent illness that affects children during the monsoon season. Gastroenteritis involves inflammation of both the stomach and intestines and is seen with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and dehydration.

Practical tips for prevention and care:

1. Teach your child proper handwashing techniques to prevent the transmission of bacteria and viruses.
2. Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes with oral rehydration solutions to combat dehydration. Home-based fluids like chach, dal ka pani coconut water can be given.
3. foods such as bananas, rice, curd, khichdi, bread can be given
4. Avoid giving dairy and fatty foods during the illness, as they may worsen symptoms.
5. Seek medical help if your child experiences severe dehydration or persistent symptoms.
6. Do not give packaged drinks and fruit juice as they are high in sugar.

General Monsoon Health Tips for Children

In addition to the specific ailments mentioned above, it's crucial to adopt certain preventive measures to safeguard your child's health during the monsoon season.

Keeping children dry and clean during the monsoon:

• Ensure children wear appropriate rain gear, such as raincoats and waterproof shoes, to prevent getting wet and catching a cold.
• Change wet clothes promptly to avoid skin irritations and infections.

Ensuring a balanced diet and proper nutrition:

• Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your child's diet to boost their immunity.
• Provide warm, freshly cooked meals to minimize the risk of food contamination.

Encouraging regular exercise and outdoor activities:

• Let your child engage in outdoor activities whenever the weather permits to boost their physical health and immunity.
• Choose safe play areas and avoid stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Full-sleeved clothing should be worn to prevent mosquito bites

Conclusion

During the monsoon season, children face health challenges due to an increased risk of infections and ailments. As responsible parents and caregivers, it is vital to stay alert and take proactive measures to safeguard our children's well-being. 

Remember, if you notice any persistent or severe symptoms, always seek guidance from a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Stay informed and prioritize your child's health throughout this beautiful yet challenging season.

If you think your children might be at risk of monsoon illnesses, visit a super-specialty hospital today!