Dengue is a mosquito-borne illness caused by the Aedes mosquito, which naturally breeds in calm water collected in containers, tires, flowerpots, and rooftops. Children with dengue infection are likely to develop symptoms between 3 to 14 days after they were bitten.
Typical symptoms of dengue in children are:
Although most children recover within a week, a few may get severe dengue, a more deadly form of the illness. It may include internal bleeding, platelet shortage, leakage of plasma, or organ damage. These might require hospitalization immediately.
Chikungunya is yet another condition that the Aedes mosquito transmits. Although it presents much like dengue, perhaps the most distinctive feature is severe joint pain that may last for weeks or even months.
Symptoms include:
Though never fatal, chikungunya can significantly interfere with your child's comfort and lifestyle due to chronic stiffness of joints.
It is identical to that of dengue:
Typhoid fever is caused by the Salmonella Typhi bacterium, usually acquired from consuming infected food or water. When there is poor sanitation during the monsoons, food cleanliness may be compromised, and typhoid is a common risk.
Symptoms of typhoid are:
Typhoid, if not treated, can lead to serious complications such as bleeding or intestinal perforation.
Besides mosquito- and water-borne diseases, children are also more prone to viral fevers, stomach infections, and respiratory conditions in the rainy season.
The majority of monsoon viral fevers are self-limiting but can be severe. Danger signs include high fever, sore throat, cough, body pain, and weakness. Though not serious in most instances, persistent fever could be a warning of an unsafe infection.
Diarrhea is often caused by food and water contamination, especially among children. Look out for dehydration signs of dry mouth, reduced urination, or sunken eyes.
The high allergens and humidity combined are likely to cause cough, cold, asthma, and other respiratory ailments in children, particularly those who have pre-existing conditions.
Monsoon-borne diseases can be solved by early medical attention. Seek the advice of a doctor if your child experiences any of the below:
They could be warning signs of life-threatening conditions like dengue hemorrhagic fever, typhoid, or respiratory distress.
Boosting your child's immunity actually helps fight off infections. A healthy diet, sound sleep, and regular exercise are the secrets.
How to enhance your child's immunity:
Include seasonal Vitamin C-rich fruits like oranges, guavas, and amla.
Having good hygiene habits right from the beginning can greatly reduce your child's likelihood of falling ill.
Tell them to:
All monsoon diseases don't need medicines. Home treatment can make your child recover smoothly in case of mild symptoms.
Do not self-medicate or use antibiotics without a doctor's advice, particularly for viral fevers.
Having a home kit handy for immediate handling of initial symptoms comes in handy:
Keep also handy a list of emergency numbers and your child's medical history.
Knowledge is the best protector. Make children learn the basics of disease prevention:
The monsoon is a time of happiness, new leaves, and fresh winds—but of greater health risk as well, especially for children. Using a prudent attitude that integrates preventive measures, hygiene, immunization, and early detection of symptoms, you can keep your child healthy and secure.
Let your child enjoy the rains without falling sick. Be careful, be prepared, and in doubt—do not hesitate, consult a doctor.