Kids are more prone to sickness during the rainy season, with scientific studies confirming that the cold weather weakens the body's first line of immune defenses.
The rainy season can be harmful to your children, especially with the prevalence of mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue. In a recent disease surveillance report from the Department of Health (206 Morbidity Report Week 33), a total of 101,401 suspect dengue cases were reported nationwide from January 1 to August 20, 2016. This is 16% higher compared to the same time period last year (87,411). The same study revealed majority of the cases were male (52.4%). Most (38.8%) of the cases belonged to the 5 to 14 years age group.
Even if children stay indoors most of the time, they are still susceptible to these season diseases. So here are five simple but effective tips to keep your kids safe and healthy this rainy season.
Boost your children's immune system
Arm your little warriors with a balanced and healthy diet to give them the vitamins and minerals they need to keep their immune system in tiptop shape. Food rich in Vitamin C should be particularly abundant (think yummy citrus and yogurt, for instance). Make sure they get enough sleep and more importantly, a balanced diet.
Keep your kids warm and clean
Since the cold temperatures weaken the immune system, keeping your child warm is one of the best ways to ward off symptoms of the common cold. Put several layers of clothing on your child when the weather is cold, like hats and jackets.
Protect your home against mosquitoes
Our homes can actually be potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Make sure your home is free from clutter and stagnant water. Regularly clean your water containers and gutters at home. You can also install window screens for additional protection.
Self-protection is key
Keep mosquitoes away from your kids through protective clothing. Let them wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and raincoats during the rainy season. Mosquito repellents and patches are also effective in providing protection.
For fever caused by dengue, make no mistake: choose Paracetamol (Calpol).
If your child is showing early signs of dengue, make sure that your child gets enough rest and plenty of fluids. For fever caused by dengue, the World Health Organisation (WHO) states that paracetamol is the only medicine recommended for the treatment of fever related to dengue.
How do you keep your family safe from mosquito-borne diseases? Share them here!
Sources:
http://www.latimes.com/local/education/community/la-me-edu-kids-flu-season-20151106-story.html
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/next/body/scientists-finally-prove-cold-weather-makes-sick/
http://outbreaknewstoday.com/philippines-re-%20ports-more-than-200000-dengue-cases-in-2015/
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs117/en/
http://asia.dengue.info/sites/default/files/factsheet_on_dengue_in_the_philippines_2016.pdf
http://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/statistics/DENGUE%20MW33.pdf
