Infants in the initial few months are prone to minor illnesses. A baby shows symptoms of cold and flu due to several reasons. Right from birth, a baby has a mother’s immunity, but this is not fully matured to ward off the infections.
At this stage, parents need to be extra careful to protect their newborn from unwanted exposure. It becomes more critical to manage the baby’s first cold and flu season. While cold and flu is a prevalent condition, it can quickly intensify into serious diseases. So, parents must take adequate measures.
Steps to Protect the Baby From Cold and Flu
- Maintain Proper Hygiene
The little ones don’t have a fully developed immune system, so prepare up with the protection measures. It is essential to minimize germs and infections whenever the baby comes in contact with others. By maintaining a proper hygienic environment in your house, you can ensure to offer the best safety.
Insist everyone to wash or sanitize their hands before touching the baby. Disinfect the surface properly, as germs can live for several hours.
- Keep the Baby Protected
When you are venturing out with your baby, keep them near you. Strangers are mostly attracted to the little ones, but they are less likely to touch if you hold the babies close. This will eliminate the chances of unwanted touches.
However, there are some instances when things aren’t under your control. Keep natural baby wipes handy, it can instantly clean your infant from getting affected by germs and infections.
- Breastfeed the Child
After the birth of the babies, breastfeeding them can safeguard them against various diseases. Studies reveal that infants breastfeeding for six months witnessed a 63% drop in severe cold, throat, and ear infections. Baby nursing reduces other health conditions related to respiratory tract infections and stomach bugs.
Breastmilk works like a miracle in combating illness because it contains antibodies that help build the immune system. Breastfeeding the child is a natural way to help them sustain major conditions.
- Take Proper Vaccines
Perhaps, the best way to protect the infant is to give them the proper vaccine. It not only prevents cold and flu, but also other life-threatening diseases, like measles, chickenpox, and meningitis. Vaccines are equally important for the caregivers to curb the infections from passing down to the child.
Both the mother and father need to get their shots to ensure maximum safety. Following the vaccine schedules timely will help maintain the good health condition of the child.
- Avoid Public Places for Sometime
Parents should avoid going to public places and gathering. It is necessary for maintaining the safety and precaution for the infant. There is no strict rule to stay with the child at home every time. You can take the child out to get some fresh air, depending upon the prevailing weather.
However, taking the child to crowded places and gathering is a different story. There is every possibility of contagious diseases attacking your child. So, keep this in mind.
- Consult the Pediatrician
There are times when the child is likely to get sick, no matter how many precautionary measures you take. It is common for a child to get sick with cold and flu at least a few times a year. It doesn’t always require a trip to the physician, but if the child develops certain symptoms look for it.
If your baby has a serious fever or illness, don’t delay in consulting the paediatrician. For added protection, use natural baby diapers and change whenever it gets wet or dirty.
Bottom Line
Cold and flu are prevalent diseases that are often seen in a child. It is not that severe, but it can transform into a critical illness. However, there is no need to panic if parents are a little careful about taking the required precaution at the right time.
