Essential winter care: Safeguarding children against the chill

KATHMANDU: Various problems appear in our health during winter season. In the cold, when we neglect our health, our immune system weakens and our health problems begin to appear.

As of this, problems such as fever, headache, cough, chest pain, and abdominal pain are seen.

The prevalence of such issues increases notably among vulnerable groups like young girls, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

Due to weakened immune capacities, viruses tend to launch aggressive attacks.

What kind of health concerns are common in the winter, particularly among small children? How can we safeguard children from such problems? What steps should be taken? What is not appropriate to adopt? Makalu Khabar’s interview with pediatrician Dr. Pawana Kayastha of Kathmandu Medical College is as follows.

Problems seen in children during winter season

• cold
• sudden onset of fever, headache
• difficulty in breathing
• chest pain
• sore throat
• runny nose
• diarrhea
• cracked, dry, chapped skin
• not drinking mother’s milk, cries
• allergy and other symptoms appear.

The specialist cautioned that if the common cold is neglected initially, it poses risks of developing problems such as typhoid, pneumonia, and the like.

Prevention and control measures

• dressing the baby in warm clothing
• providing nutrition-rich foods to enhance immunity
• feeding hot water and soup substances to the baby
• exposing the baby to morning sunlight (Vitamin ‘D’)
• feeding seasonal fruits and vegetables based on the weather
• wearing a mask and changing clothes before meeting the baby after coming from outside
• ensuring mandatory handwashing before meeting the baby
• keeping the baby at a distance from individuals with cold symptoms
• regularly washing hands with soap throughout the day
• applying moisturizing cream when the skin is dry, cracked, or peeling
• using marks powder for the baby’s external use, etc.

Don’ts for taking care of children’s health in winter

• stop using a heater or fire inside the house to prevent respiratory issues in babies
• diversifying the baby’s diet for better nutrition
• avoiding the consumption of junk food
• maintaining an equal balance of rice and vegetables in the baby’s meals
• not exposing infants to extreme cold and keeping them adequately warm
• ensuring proper hygiene by keeping their body clean and dry
• limiting the intake of cold foods and drinks during the winter season
• providing warm clothing to keep the baby comfortable
• avoiding exposure to smoke or pollutants inside the house
• ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet to support the baby’s overall health

Dr. Kayastha advised that if the health problems of children are increasing due to cold, they should go to the nearest health institution and get medical treatment according to the doctor’s advice.

-Tenzing Dolma Tamang/MK