New Delhi, May 10 (IANS). Children are most affected by climate change. Children fall ill quickly when the weather changes from hot to cold or from cold to hot. In such a situation, health experts tell what to do and what not to do? They recommend taking some small precautions, so that children remain healthy even amidst the change in weather.
The National Health Mission (NHM) cautions families and advises them to avoid feeding outside food to children during this time. This may prove dangerous for their health. In the changing season, complaints like viral infection, stomach problems, cold, cough and fever become common. The oils, spices and water used in outside food are often not clean. This can cause food poisoning or stomach infection in the child. Therefore, as much as possible, keep children away from outside junk food, chaat, samosas or cold drinks.
To keep children healthy, NHM advises to take some precautions, such as limiting outside food and giving only fresh and nutritious home-made food to children.
According to the season, prepare light and digestible food. Whether the weather is hot or cold, give children enough water frequently. Instead of bottled cold drinks from the market, give liquids like home-made buttermilk, lemon water, coconut water or herbal tea.
Dress children according to the weather; neither should children sweat in too warm clothes nor should they shiver in the cold. Choose light, cotton and comfortable clothes. Protect yourself from cold and infection. For this, in case of slight cold at night, children should be covered with a light sweater or shawl. Make a habit of washing hands and be careful while going to crowded places.
According to NHM, small precautions go a long way in keeping children healthy during changing seasons. Parents should pay special attention to children’s plate, water and clothes. If symptoms like fever, vomiting or diarrhea appear in the child, contact the doctor immediately.
Health experts say that the immunity of children becomes weak due to changing weather. Therefore, along with proper eating habits, cleanliness and proper clothes, they should also be provided with good sleep.
–IANS
MT/ABM
