Summer is a good time for kids to go outdoors, learn a new hobby, and get together with friends. However, there are some illnesses more common during summer months that try to dampen this fun season.
Knowing the common illnesses going around allows you to take preventive measures to make sure your kids don’t contract it, and they get to maximize their summer vacation.
Six Ways to Prevent Summer Illnesses in Babies and Young Children
As many of the common summer illnesses are contracted virally, it is important to keep your little ones safe and clean throughout the summer season.
- Have your kids wash their hands often
- Eat clean food and drink purified/distilled water
- Stay up-to-date on your little one’s vaccine schedules
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure
- Practice proper hygiene
- Get enough rest
Six Summer Must-Have Items for Babies and Young Children
Six Most Common Summer Illnesses in Babies and Small Children
- Gastrointestinal Diseases – gastrointestinal diseases like diarrhea, food poisoning, and viral gastroenteritis are more common during summer, where many people are out and about. It is especially common in babies and school-age children.
- Influenza – the Philippines experiences erratic weather during summer, which can cause kids to contract the flu.
- Chickenpox – as Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease, it is more common during summer because there are more children outdoors.
- Conjunctivitis (sore eyes) – more exposure to the sun’s UV rays can make eyes dry. Therefore, the eyes are more prone to infection and irritation during summer than any other season.
- Asthma - during summer, there are more pollutants and pollen in the air. Add humidity into the picture, and you’re given a dangerous trio that triggers asthma attacks in people.
- Skin Conditions – with more exposure to the sun during summer, kids are prone to sunburns and heat rashes. Make sure to dress your little ones in appropriate clothing, and give them some sunblock before leaving home.
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