Monsoon Shots To Fight The Flu

While you’re excited to bask in the cool monsoon weather, there are certain precautionary measures, such as getting your little one vaccinated can protect them against diseases, that one needs to take. M&B gives you a low down on how you and your child can have a safe and happy monsoon

- Sania Dhirwani

Monsoons usher in a welcome change from the scorching summer heat. But, along with the freshness, greenery and much needed breeze, the monsoons also bring with it disease and illness. However, there’s really no reason why you can’t make the most of the weather, even if you have young children around the house.

Dr Bhaskar Shenoy, consultant and chief, division of paediatric infectious diseases, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, says, “Due to wet and humid climate, various infections are common during the monsoons. The dampness, muck and stagnant pools of water are ideal breeding grounds for disease-causing microorganisms. While everyone is prone to diseases during the monsoons, children are most likely to fall sick due to their immature immune system. It is imperative for parents to take the necessary precautionary measures to ensure that children practice good hygiene and minimise their chances of falling ill.”

Some common ailments of the season

Catching a cold, having a sore throat and contracting water-borne diseases are quite frequent. “Dangerous waterborne diseases that children are susceptible to are gastroenteritis (diarrhoea), cholera, jaundice (hepatitis A and E), typhoid and dysentery. Disease-producing viruses, bacteria, protozoa and parasitic worms found in the faeces of infected persons could contaminate water and can cause mild to serious infections in children,” says Dr Bhaskar.

If you have a viral fever

A viral fever is prevalent during the monsoons. It is a contagious disease and often spreads from one child to another, especially in schools or daycare centres. This is because these viruses are transmitted through air and touch. Young children are more prone to viral fevers as their immune system is not strong. In an attempt to get rid of the foreign particles, the temperature of body is increased.

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