This year monsoon onset was delayed, hence it arrived by the end of June. However, in July, Mumbai witnessed a torrential rains, however, the schools had already began. As a result of this, the change in weather to cold, getting wet in the rain, sitting together at school, and eating tiffin led to spread of the viral infections rapidly.
Many children were rushed to the hospital with complaints like cold, cough, fever, and diarrhoea. Paediatricians in the city are urging parents to seek medical advice on time without fretting.
Waterborne and insect-borne diseases increase rapidly during rainy days. The dew that forms in the air after the onset of rain and the sudden onset of humid and hot weather after the cessation of rain are causes of these diseases.
Dr Suresh Birajdar, Neonatologist & Pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, said, “Currently, children are experiencing symptoms of viral diseases like cold, cough, and fever. Every year such patients are found during the rainy season. However, in the last two weeks, there has been an increase in the number of complaints of children suffering from diarrhoea by almost 50 to 70 per cent since the third week of June compared to the last two months. During rainy days, children should be given boiled water and stay hydrated. Children should have liquids in the form of lemon water or ORS, and eat light food including soft rice, khichdi, and curd rice. If the baby's anal area is red then use coconut oil or cream suggested by the doctor. If the symptoms of infection in children persist for a long time or in case there is abdominal pain or blood in stool, a pediatrician should be consulted immediately.”
As the immunity of children is low, they get infected quickly during monsoon. As their airways are smaller, the airways are affected more quickly. Because of this, children under five years of age are more susceptible to infection during rainy days.
Dr Narjohn Meshram, Head Of Paediatric ICU, Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai said, “Children with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to seasonal illnesses than other children. Monsoon is considered an ideal time for the growth of viruses, so it is necessary to take extra care of children during these days. Regular vaccination of children helps protect them from diseases. Diapers can also cause rashes as well as fungal infections. So, the baby's diapers need to be changed every two to three hours. Even children should cut their nails from time to time, and wash their hands after playing. Children should be taught the importance of personal hygiene. The incidence of diseases like asthma, pneumonia, and flu increase during the monsoon season, so the child should get the annual influenza vaccine before the monsoon season. Even pneumococcal vaccines should be given to children. If fever, diarrhoea, and vomiting are seen, visit a paediatrician and do not ignore these symptoms.”
What precautions needs to be taken?
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