Four common health problems that babies are prone to catch

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• Sep 2, 2022 | Dhupali Das

The virus spreads through saliva; it could also spread through direct touch or from toys and surfaces...

Digital Desk: The initial years are extremely crucial for the baby’s development. Parents must take extra care to ensure their health as babies are more sensitive and prone to illness. The immune system of a baby is not developed enough to combat sickness and disease-causing elements. The baby's being frequently unwell and disturbed is a common and unavoidable situation. However, it's always good to be aware of and prepared to combat common diseases.

Mentioned below are the five common illnesses that babies are prone to catch:

Cold: This is the most common illness that babies are exposed to several times a year. This is because infants are not immune to viruses. However, the symptoms subside within a few days and are not life-threatening. The treatment is to alleviate the symptoms and to visit a doctor to check out any other causes.

Roseola: It is caused by the Human Herpesvirus type 6 (HHV-6), which causes a rash and a short fever. The virus spreads through saliva; it could also spread through direct touch or from toys and surfaces. If the baby catches roseola, keep them hydrated and cool, and give them fever-reducing medication.

Stomach flu: It is also known as gastroenteritis. It causes frequent vomiting and diarrhoea. In addition, it causes pain and loss of appetite in children. Keep a tight eye on the hygiene of the child's food, as the virus spreads through contaminated food.

Ear and eye infections: The infection in the ear causes pain and leads to several other symptoms like loss of balance, sleeping trouble, and fluids draining from the ear. Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is the most common type of eye infection that causes inflammation in babies and children.

In addition to the aforementioned illnesses, a child's weak immune system makes them more vulnerable to severe health conditions such as malaria, pneumonia, influenza, tuberculosis, etc. Early detection and alertness can help protect babies from these infections. Consult a doctor at the first sign of a symptom and take preventative measures to ensure the child's health.