CONNECTOR.AE 36 CONNECTOR.AE 37 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS their child’s natural defences. With expert advice, we’ll take you through simple, practical steps to help your child stay healthy. Why Do Children Fall Sick More Often During Back-To-School Season? Returning to school means children are suddenly surrounded by large groups of peers after Building Immunity In Your Children: Back-To-School Health Tips As the schools are set to reopen across the UAE and children return to classrooms after the long s ummer break, there is also a return of sniffles, sneezes, and sick days. It’s a familiar pattern many parents recognise. Children head back to school in high spirits, only to fall ill within the first few weeks of term. The change in routine, new environments, close contact with classmates, and exposure to new germs all play a role in this seasonal spike in infections. In this feature, Connector breaks down why immunity dips during this season, what common illnesses to watch out for, and most importantly, how parents can actively help boost weeks of summer break, often spent indoors. Classrooms, cafeterias, buses, and shared play areas become hotspots for the transmission of infections, especially those that spread through droplets or touch. “When children stay in confined spaces without much exposure during the holidays and then return to busy classrooms, even one sick child can lead to many more falling ill”, says Dr. Lakshmi Prasad, Paediatrician at NMC Medical Centre, Al Majaz. Dr. Radhika K Naidu, Specialist Paediatrician at JTS Medical Centre in Jumeirah, adds, “Backto-school season is always hectic. And we see a predictable surge in infections every year, from respiratory illnesses to seasonal allergies and even stomach bugs”. Children typically don’t usually pay much attention to respiratory or hand hygiene unless they are specifically taught. That increases the chances of spreading respiratory and airborne infections. Understanding what these illnesses are and what symptoms to look out for is the first step in tackling them effectively. Common Illnesses During The Season Experts note that it is important to consult with the primary physician to confirm any illness or infection that children may have. Dr. Radhika K Naidu from JTS Medical Centre lists a few of the most common illnesses seen among children during the back-to-school season: 1. Seasonal flu and upper respiratory infections These are among the most common issues in school-going children. Watch for signs like a runny nose, nasal congestion, fever, chills, sore throat, dry cough, and body aches. 2. Gastrointestinal infections (stomach bug) These are infections affecting the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and fever. These can lead to dehydration if not addressed promptly. 3. Ear infections Usually occurring as a complication of colds or allergies, ear infections can present with fever, fussiness, ear pain, and nasal congestion. 4. Seasonal allergies Children sensitive to dust, pollen, or weather changes may experience wheezing, sneezing, rashes, or a persistent dry cough. ‘‘We see a predictable surge in infections every year, from respiratory illnesses to seasonal allergies and even stomach bugs.”
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