When it comes to health, children are particularly vulnerable, as their bodies and their immune systems are still in the developing stages. Their physiological and emotional needs are different from those of adults, and therefore, parents must take more care in protecting them from various illnesses.
In light of the monsoons and the spike in mosquito-borne diseases, the OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Smita D'Souza, Consultant - Paediatrics, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, to evaluate the risks of mosquito-related illnesses in children and provide parents with proactive measures to safeguard their health. This article is part of OMH's Mosquito-Mukt India initiative, aligned with World Mosquito Day 2024.
Also Read: Mosquito-Mukt India: Understanding The Types Of Mosquito-Borne Diseases And How They Spread
Are Children At Risk Of Mosquito-Borne Disease?
"Children are significantly more at risk for mosquito bites and the diseases they can potentially carry," says Dr D'Souza. Besides the fact that their immune systems are still developing, the susceptibility can be attributed to many other contributing factors.
"One reason is that children are usually warmer than adults and have a more active metabolism. Their skin is also thinner and more easily compressed, promoting bites," the doctor explains.
She further suggests that children spend a lot of time outdoors playing, especially in mosquito-prone regions such as gardens and parks, etc., which could put them at a higher risk of mosquito bites.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vector-borne diseases account for more than 17% of all infectious diseases, of which malaria is responsible for an estimated 21.9 crore cases globally and claims more than four lakh deaths every year. Of the total deaths, the majority occur in children under the age of five years, the healthy body notes.
How To Protect Children At Home
Dr D’Souza says, “At home, make sure windows and doors are covered with screens to keep mosquitoes out. Mosquito nets over beds and cribs are well-known means of secondary protection, especially among smaller young children. When children are outdoors, applying child-safe insect repellent or the oil of lemon Eucalyptus is also a good method. Consider dressing children in light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing as possible.”
What To Do If Your Child Is Bitten By Mosquitoes
If your child is bitten by mosquitoes, parents can clean the affected area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection, says Dr D'Souza, adding that applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling, and Over-the-Counter (OTC) antihistamine creams can relieve itching.
However, it is important to monitor the child for any signs of a mosquito-borne illness, which can vary depending on the disease.
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Rash
"If a child develops any of these symptoms, particularly after travelling to a region known for mosquito-borne diseases, parents should seek medical attention immediately," Dr D'Souza advises.
On Educating Kids About Mosquito Prevention
Not only is it important for parents to take care of their children and protect them from mosquito bites and related infections, but it is also crucial that parents educate children about how they can take personal responsibility to protect themselves.
This includes making children aware of the importance of using insect repellents and wearing protective clothing when playing outside.
Dr D'Souza shares that simple explanations about how mosquitoes can carry diseases can help children understand the importance of prevention.
"Parents can also involve children in identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home, turning the activity into a fun and educational game," she adds.