CONNECTOR.AE 38 CONNECTOR.AE 39 HEALTH AND WELLNESS HEALTH AND WELLNESS Experts agree that water plays a vital role in flushing out toxins and maintaining overall health. Make sure your child drinks enough water throughout the day, especially when the weather is hot and humid. Adequate sleep and rest allows the body to reset and repair, building resistance against infections. “Ensuring children get enough sleep helps reset and rebuild the immune system, making them more resilient to illnesses”, says Dr. Radhika K Naidu from JTS Medical Centre. Depending on age, school children generally need between 9 to 11 hours of quality sleep each night. Encouraging physical activity andoutdoor play, not only improves physical health but also stimulates the immune system. “Light exposure to sunlight helps the body produce Vitamin D naturally, which is essential for strong immunity”, adds Dr. Radhika K Naidu from JTS Medical Centre. Allow time for outdoor play when possible, before or after school, while also ensuring children are protected against excessive heat. Teaching Hygiene: A Skill For Life Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette are among the most effective, yet often overlooked, methods to prevent illness. While these illnesses are common, the good news is that many of themcan be prevented or managed with the right immunity support. How To Build Your Child’s Immunity Nutrition is key, a strong immune system begins with good nutrition. “Watch your child’s food habits. Avoid junk food and calorie-rich snacks with little nutritional value”, advises Dr. Lakshmi Prasad from NMC Medical Centre. A balanced diet should include: • Fruit and vegetables, especially those rich in antioxidants, such as berries, citrus fruits, spinach, and carrots. • Protein-rich foods, such as lean meats, eggs, lentils, and dairy products. • Healthy fats, like nuts, seeds, and fish for essential fatty acids. • Whole grains, for sustained energy and digestive health. Dr. RadhikaKNaidu fromJTSMedicalCentreadds, “Zinc, Vitamins C and D, Omega-3, and B-complex are particularly important to strengthen your children’s natural defence to illnesses. These can be found in food or prescribed supplements if needed”. “Watch your child’s food habits. Avoid junk food and calorie-rich snacks with little nutritional value” Dr. Lakshmi Prasad fromNMC Medical Centre and Dr. Radhika K Naidu from JTS Medical Centre recommends that parents teach children to: • Wash hands properly with soap and water after using the toilet, before meals, and after returning home from school. • Use hand sanitisers if soap and water are not available. • Cover their mouth and nose with their elbow, and not hands, when coughing or sneezing. • Avoid sharing water bottles, food containers, or personal items in school. These habits, once instilled, can go a long way in reducing the spread of infections. Don’t Skip Vaccinations Vaccinations remain one of the most reliable ways to prevent severe illness. “Flu vaccines are particularly recommended during September and October in the UAE, as the flu is most common during this period”, shares Dr. Lakshmi Prasad from NMC Medical Centre. Ensure your child is up to date with their ageappropriate vaccines. If you’re unsure, consult your paediatrician to discuss which seasonal or routine shots are needed. KnowWhen To Keep Your Child Home One of the biggest contributors to infection spread is sending unwell children to school. “If your child is showing signs of infection, including fever, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhoea, keep them at home and seek medical attention”, says Dr. Radhika K Naidu from JTS Medical Centre. This not only helps your child recover faster but also protects other children in the classroom. Early Detection And Timely Care Always monitor symptoms early. Recognising the signs of illness helps you take prompt action and prevents complications. Both experts agree that self-diagnosis is not appropriate. Consult a physician to confirm the nature of the illness and get proper treatment. Also, during recovery, make sure your child is wellhydrated, rested, and nourished to bounce back stronger. Back to school doesn’t have to mean back to the doctor’s office. With thoughtful preparation and consistent care, you can give your child the strongest start to the academic year ahead.
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