Kid's Health Tips For Seasonal Illness: A Parent's Guide

Ah, the joys of parenthood! From the messy diaper to the seemingly eternal era of ‘Why?’s, it's certainly a wild ride. But amidst the chaos, there's one constant worry: keeping your little ones healthy.

One of the few things that can truly get to both new and veteran parents is when the child is in pain and discomfort from a random bout of cough and cold.

The culprit? Seasonal illnesses. These pesky intruders seem to strike when you least expect them and can throw a wrench in even the best-laid family plans. But fear not, worried parents! This guide is handmade with love to give your kids health tips for seasonal illness.

Seasonal illnesses are exactly what it says on the tin. They are the weirdly intrusive relatives you meet only once or twice a year but somehow cannot avoid. They tend to pop up especially when the season changes, hence the name. Think sniffles in the fall, the dreaded flu in winter, and not to forget those itchy eyes during allergy season.

Now, not to point fingers, but kids are little germ magnets! In their defence, their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to these unwelcome guests.

Why are kids more vulnerable?

• Frequent hand-to-mouth contact: Toddlers and young children are notorious for exploring the world with their mouths.

• Developing immune systems: As we said, their immune systems are still learning to recognise the intruders, much less fight them.

• Close contact in schools and daycare: Kids constantly interact with other children, increasing the chances of germ transmission.

Because of this vulnerability, it's increasingly fatal to children than to adults. In 2023-2024, the CDC reported 199 pediatric deaths as a result of Influenza, known to all of us as just Flu. Even in India, it's a persistent issue that needs more awareness.

• The Common Cold:

This is the most frequent visitor, with its runny nose, cough, and sore throat.

• Influenza (Flu):

More serious than the common cold, the flu can cause fever, body aches, and even pneumonia. Particularly, H3N2, a new flu strain, seemed to affect young children during the majority of 2023, causing an outbreak of severe illness.

• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus):

RSV can cause difficulty breathing and is one of the leading causes of lower respiratory tract infection. Peaking from June through October, this virus mostly affects children under five.

• Allergies:

From pollen to dust mites, allergies can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. In severe cases, it can restrict breathing and lead to death without medical attention.

It doesn't tire of repeating the adage that prevention is better than cure regarding seasonal illnesses. Staying up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, including the flu shot, is your priority as a parent. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces like toys, doorknobs, and countertops are your next line of defence.

Nurturing certain habits that prevent the spread of germs is equally important. So, teach your kids to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, eating, and playing outdoors.

Encourage your kids to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue when they cough or sneeze. If a tissue isn't available, teach them to cough or sneeze into their elbow.

Above all, live as an example by practising healthy habits like regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting plenty of sleep. Your child is more inclined to learn by looking at you than listening to you.

Importance of Flu Shots for Kids

If we take influenza, its various strains have been found, and the only way to circumvent it is through timely vaccination. Flu shots are among the few succès weapons in the fight against seasonal illnesses. They help protect your child from serious flu complications like pneumonia and even death, which is a very real possibility.

So, who should get a flu shot?

All children aged six months and older should receive an annual flu shot. Make sure to ask for other vaccinations and when to administer them with your paediatrician.

We understand that it might be a tad bit harder to work with seasonal allergies. Here are some ways to make it easier for yourself and your kid:

• Identify Triggers:

Work with your paediatrician to determine your child's specific allergy triggers (pollen, dust mites, pet dander, you name it, there's an allergic kid out there for it). It's a tedious but necessary first step.

• Minimise Exposure:

Of course, once you know what's irritating your kid, take steps to minimise exposure to that specific allergen. For example, keep your windows closed, use air purifiers, and regularly wash bedding and stuffed animals. Make your home a safe space.

• Over-the-counter Medications:

Consult your paediatrician about appropriate over-the-counter medications to relieve allergy symptoms. There are many histamines, so be careful about which one is best for your kid.

Best Practices To Keep Kids Healthy In Winter

We can go on and on about some obscure remedy or prevention tip, but it starts with the basics.

First, bundle up your kids in warm clothes before even thinking about stepping out the door during the cold winter months. From hats and gloves to ear mufflers and scarves, depending on how cold your part of India gets, be prepared for a literal snowstorm if that's what it takes.

Then, regularly sanitise toys shared with other children after a playdate. On that note, remind them to wash their hands after a tumble outdoors. As much as touching grass is a fundamental need, so is being hygienic.

There will come a day when even the most consistent prevention method will fail. Now that your kid is sniffling around the house, we urge you to go back to the basics once again.

• Rest:

Give them incentives, if that's what it takes, to ensure they get plenty of rest. It's an uncomfortable time for everyone around, but it's important that they power through it and find some time to let their body do their thing.

Especially because ample rest can help produce cytokines, also known as immunomodulating agents. True to their name, they strengthen one's immunity after a good night's sleep or a power nap, and it's one of the important processes in recovering from colds and flu.

• Hydration:

Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broths, and diluted fruit juice. But make sure not to force-feed them to the point of nausea. Set a max limit and alternate between the various fluids to not overwhelm them with just water.

• Humidifier:

Use a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air and soothe congestion. Administering a nebuliser with prescribed meds is also a great way to avoid tablets if your kid is averse to it.

• Warm liquids:

A done and tested true home remedy as it not only gives relief from sore throat but also comfort during such a distressing time. Offer warm liquids like chicken soup or herbal tea to soothe the body ache that is sure to accompany the flu or cold.

• Honey (for children over one year old):

A spoonful of honey can help soothe a cough because we know the cough syrups taste vile. Honey is a tasty and healthy alternative to that.

Children's Supplements for Immune Support

While a balanced diet is the foundation of a strong immune system, certain supplements may provide that extra oomph, especially during increased stress or illness. Make sure to get a test done to figure out which of these supplements can be added to your kid's daily intake.

• Vitamin C & D: Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant, and Vitamin D helps support immune function in general.

• Zinc: This is essential for a healthy immune system and can help shorten the duration of colds.

Supplements can be a bit daunting for children to consider, but it's a good thing to enquire your paediatrician about them anyway. Having all the help to keep your kid healthy is always a good thing.

Kids, in general, need hands-on attention for a good amount of time before they are taught to be aware and careful of their surroundings. We hope that this blog’s focus on kids' health tips for seasonal illnesses lessens your burden a little.

More often than not, a little knowledge and effort are all you need to reduce your risk of seasonal illnesses. Beyond all that we've said so far, don't hesitate to contact your paediatrician with any concerns you may have. They are your greatest allies in keeping your children healthy and happy.