After the blazing and sweaty summers, monsoon showers come as a boon! The pleasant weather, cool breeze, cloud-covered skies, endless cups of tea — everything feels perfect! However, this season calls for extra caution, especially for children. Bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections are common during monsoons. Here are some tips to keep your children healthy and safe.

Protection against mosquitoes

• Clear stagnant water around your home.
• Always apply physician-approved mosquito repellent cream.
• Dress children in long-sleeved clothes and full-length pants outdoors.
• Use mosquito nets.
• Keep your surroundings clean.

Eat healthy food

• The rainy season increases the risk of waterborne diseases like diarrhoea and typhoid. Always use filtered or boiled water.
• Keep food covered at all times to prevent germ contamination.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with salt water or warm water.
• Serve only freshly prepared food.

Hot Beverages

• Serve hot food and beverages like vegetable soups and warm milk to avoid throat infections.

Staying Indoors

• Children are more vulnerable during monsoon. Encourage them to stay indoors by arranging fun indoor activities.
• Avoid giving street food, junk food, or oily food. Children’s immunity is weaker, so avoid feeding them unsafe snacks.
• Ensure they follow a regular, nutritious diet that includes soups, yoghurt, oats, fruits, and chickpeas (in moderation).
• Make them bathe daily using antiseptic soap.
• Ask them to wash their feet with lukewarm water after coming from outside.
• Avoid plastic, canvas, or leather shoes as they trap moisture. Choose breathable sandals or slip-ons. If shoes are necessary, apply anti-fungal powder.
• Encourage them to stay in an air-conditioned room to avoid sweat rashes or prickly heat.