From sleep and nutrition to knowing when to seek medical care, Dr. Danny Alsalloum, Pediatrician at Medcare Women & Children Hospital, Dubai, explains the everyday habits that genuinely reduce a child’s risk of illness and steering clear of germs.
What are your top three daily habits that genuinely reduce a child’s risk of getting sick?
Good hand hygiene, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet are three of the most effective daily habits. Regular physical activity and staying up to date with vaccinations also play an important role in preventing infections.
How much do sleep, nutrition, and hydration influence immunity in young children?
They are fundamental. Sleep allows the immune system to recover and function properly, good nutrition provides essential vitamins and minerals for immune cells, and hydration helps maintain circulation and mucosal barriers that protect against infection.
Is there such a thing as “boosting” the immune system, or should parents focus on supporting it instead?
The immune system cannot be “boosted” overnight. Parents should focus on supporting it through healthy lifestyle habits nutritious meals, sufficient sleep, regular activity, stress reduction, and timely vaccinations.
Are vitamin supplements necessary for most children, or can they get what they need from diet alone?
Most healthy children can meet their nutritional needs through a balanced diet. Supplements may be recommended in certain situations such as vitamin D for some children, picky eating, or specific medical conditions but should only be given after consulting a doctor.
Which foods or nutrients are most important for immune health?
Key nutrients include protein, iron, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, lean meats, legumes, nuts (age-appropriate), whole grains, and fish all contribute to immune health.
How can parents tell the difference between a common cold and the flu in children?
Colds usually develop gradually with runny nose, sneezing, and mild fever. Flu often starts suddenly and may include high fever, body aches, fatigue, headache, and cough. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis if needed.
What are the best ways to manage symptoms at home safely?
Ensure the child rests, drinks plenty of fluids, eats light nutritious meals, and keeps the nose clear with saline drops or sprays. Fever or discomfort can be managed with age-appropriate medications as advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
What warning signs suggest a child needs medical attention rather than home care?
Seek medical advice if symptoms persist beyond a few days, fever is high or prolonged, the child becomes unusually drowsy or irritable, is not feeding well, vomits repeatedly, or parents are concerned about their child’s condition.
Are there specific symptoms that require urgent assessment, especially in younger children?
Yes. Urgent assessment is needed for difficulty breathing, bluish lips or skin, seizures, stiff neck, persistent vomiting, inability to wake, or in infants poor feeding, reduced wet nappies, or high fever.
When should parents worry about dehydration or breathing issues?
Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, no tears when crying, reduced urination, sunken eyes, or lethargy. Breathing concerns include rapid breathing, chest retractions, flaring nostrils, wheezing, or persistent coughing that interferes with feeding or sleep.
Which over-the-counter remedies are appropriate – and which should parents avoid?
Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be used for fever or pain in the correct dose for age and weight. Parents should avoid giving aspirin to children and be cautious with cough and cold medicines in young children unless advised by a doctor.
If parents could change just one habit this year to help their children stay healthier, what would you recommend?
Establishing consistent routines for sleep, nutritious meals, and handwashing – alongside keeping vaccinations up to date – is one of the most powerful ways to protect a child’s health throughout the year.
