Monsoon & Your Child’s Health

Introduction:
As a pediatrician and a mother, I often get a surge of questions from concerned parents during the monsoon. The rains bring much-needed relief from the heat but also create the perfect environment for a variety of infections and illnesses, especially in children. In this blog, I’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions that parents ask me in the clinic during the rainy season.

Q1: Why do children seem to fall sick more often during the rains?
Answer:
That’s a very common and valid observation. Monsoon affects children’s immunity in two ways: sudden temperature drops and excess humidity. This weakens their resistance and makes them more susceptible to viruses, bacteria, and mosquito-borne diseases. Plus, kids tend to play in water puddles or damp areas, which can be full of infection-causing germs.

Q2: What are the typical illnesses you see in kids during this season?
Answer:
In my practice, the monsoon brings in a wave of:
• Common cold, cough, and viral fevers
• Diarrhea, vomiting, and other gut infections
• Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria
• Skin infections (especially fungal)
• Respiratory issues and ear infections

Most of these are preventable with simple hygiene and care.

Q3: What can parents do to boost their child’s immunity during monsoon?
Answer:
Focus on these basics:
• Fresh fruits like oranges, papayas, and guavas - packed with vitamin C
• Warm, freshly-cooked meals; avoid outside/street food
• Plenty of water (preferably boiled or filtered)
• Ensure children get adequate sleep
• I also suggest handwashing as a non-negotiable routine before meals and after play.

Q4: Mosquitoes are everywhere! How do we protect our kids from mosquito-borne diseases?
Answer:
This is a big worry every monsoon. My top recommendations are:
• Use mosquito repellents that are pediatric-safe (roll-ons, patches, or nets)
• Dress your child in light, full-sleeved clothes
• Keep water tanks, plant pots, and coolers dry or covered
• Avoid evening outdoor play when mosquito activity is high

Also, look out for symptoms like high fever, rash, or fatigue — these could be early signs of dengue or malaria.

Q5: My child gets frequent stomach infections. How can we prevent that during rains? Answer:

Monsoon water often contaminates food and water. I always tell parents to:
• Stick to boiled water for drinking and brushing teeth
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
• No cold cut fruits or roadside snacks
• Use clean hands, clean nails, and clean bottles – that’s the hygiene trio!

Q6: Are there warning signs that parents should never ignore during monsoon? Answer:

Absolutely. Please don’t ignore if your child has:
• Persistent high fever (over 2 days)
• Loose motions with signs of dehydration
• Skin rashes that are spreading or painful
• Cough with wheezing or breathing difficulty
• Unusual tiredness or refusal to eat/drink
These require a quick visit to your pediatrician.

Q7: Can I give my child OTC (over-the-counter) medicines for fever or cold? Answer:

I always advise caution. While paracetamol in proper dosage is usually okay for mild fever, other medications (especially cough syrups and antibiotics) should be given only after consulting your Pediatrician. Self-medication can delay proper diagnosis.

Conclusion Monsoon is beautiful, but it needs to be respected – especially when it comes to children’s health. With simple steps, daily hygiene, and early attention to symptoms, you can enjoy this season with peace of mind. If you have more specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out — no question is too small when it comes to your child’s well-being.

Stay healthy, stay safe — and let the kids enjoy the season sensibly!

In case you have a concern or query, feel free to contact your Paediatrician - Dr Poonam Singh at neo care (New Born & Child Clinic) @ Sector-104, Noida or visit www.drpoonamsingh.in for more information.