Kids love going around places, playing, and exploring new things. While all of this is fun, it can expose them to diseases. When they come from school, they are exposed to various germs through air and transmission or direct contact. They also touch surfaces a lot, then their face, then their mouths. This makes it easy for illness to spread. While it is impossible to prevent illness completely, there could be several measures that can reduce the risk and support recovery.

Vaccination

Vaccination is a critical step in preventing severe illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend following an established vaccine schedule. Vaccines protect against life-threatening infections, including those that disproportionately affect infants and young children.

Good Hygiene

While no vaccine can prevent one from common cold, good hygiene practices can significantly reduce germ transmission. Parents must therefore encourage their children to wash their hands after touching toys, hard surfaces, and other people. What is more important is proper hand hygiene, as handwashing with soap and water is the most effective way to eliminate germs.

ALSO READ: This Spring, Make Hand Hygiene A Priority, Says Expert

The Hygiene Hypothesis: Does Exposure to Germs Strengthen Immunity?

There are several research that suggests that early exposure to germs may help develop a child’s immune system, a concept known as the "hygiene hypothesis." However, many immunologists argue against this theory, noting that children naturally encounter enough germs to build immunity without unnecessary exposure to unsanitary conditions. A balanced approach ensures children develop a strong immune response without increased risk of illness.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Children’s Belongings

Regular cleaning of toys, school supplies, and frequently touched objects is essential. Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help:

• Cleaning removes visible dirt and debris.
• Sanitizing reduces germs to safer levels.
• Disinfecting kills germs completely, offering the highest level of protection.

It is important to read product labels carefully, use child-safe cleaning products, and rinse toys thoroughly after disinfection, especially those that go into a child’s mouth.

Choosing Effective Sanitizing Products

To minimize germ exposure, parents should clean objects with soap and water first and then use a sanitizer for everyday items. Disinfectants, which are stronger, should be used on objects that a sick person has touched. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of approved sanitizers and disinfectants that effectively kill germs.

Encouraging Good Hygiene Without Causing Anxiety

Teaching children proper hygiene without creating fear is essential. Make handwashing engaging by incorporating songs or counting games. Explaining the benefits of hygiene in a positive way helps children understand that washing hands protects them and others. Parents can reinforce these habits by leading by example.

Boosting Immunity Through Nutrition

A strong immune system helps children fight infections more effectively. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in immune support. A balanced diet should include:

• Proteins
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Healthy fats
• Carbohydrates
• Adequate hydration

Multivitamins are generally unnecessary for well-nourished children, but if supplements are used, they should be free of added sugars and taken under supervision to prevent choking hazards.

Teaching Respiratory Etiquette

Proper respiratory hygiene reduces the spread of illness. Parents should model behaviors such as covering their mouths with an elbow when coughing or sneezing. Using tissues and disposing of them immediately is also a good practice. Reinforcing these habits through positive encouragement makes children more likely to adopt them.

Thyroid problems are giving a tough time to many women. Are you aware? More women planning pregnancy are now being diagnosed with borderline thyroid levels. Here, the expert sheds light on the importance of early screening and timely care for better fertility outcomes. It is imperative for women to manage their thyroid health by following the vital tips.

Thyroid issues are commonly seen in a large number of women. Currently, a large number of women who are planning pregnancy are being diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism.

This condition is identified when thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are slightly high, while other thyroid hormones remain within the normal range. Although it may not cause obvious symptoms, it can still impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes if left unmanaged.

Understanding The Link Between Thyroid And Fertility

Thyroid hormones play an important role in regulating metabolism, menstrual cycles, and ovulation. Even a small amount of imbalance can interfere with the release of eggs, making it harder for women to conceive. Subclinical hypothyroidism can be detected by the expert during routine blood tests, that is, when women undergo pre-pregnancy check-ups or even fertility evaluations. The diagnosis can be surprising for women.

That is the time some women may come to know about their compromised thyroid levels. So, the causes behind the rise in borderline TSH levels are lifestyle-related factors. You will be shocked to know that stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, and sedentary habits can affect hormonal balance.

Even conditions such as Autoimmune Thyroiditis and iodine imbalance may also contribute to thyroid dysfunction. Since symptoms are usually mild or absent, many women will end up ignoring the symptoms and suffer in silence.

While subclinical hypothyroidism may not always require aggressive treatment, it becomes important when a woman is trying to conceive. As even mildly elevated TSH levels can increase the risk of irregular ovulation, early pregnancy loss, and complications during pregnancy, prompt monitoring and, in some cases, low-dose thyroid medication can be recommended by the doctor to maintain optimal hormone levels.

Women Must Follow These Tips:

• Women should opt for regular thyroid function tests before planning pregnancy to know the status of their thyroid health.
• It is necessary to consult an expert and follow a balanced diet with an adequate amount of iodine and nutrients.
• Strictly avoid junk, processed, and sugary foods, stay hydrated, quit smoking, and limit alcohol.
• It is also necessary to sleep well, exercise daily, and follow the doctor’s instructions regarding medication and follow-ups.

So, women, stay vigilant and prevent thyroid problems.

(By Dr Swati Rai, Consultant-Gynecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida.)

Eggs are a great source of protein. At the same time, they are one of the most common foods that cause allergies in children.

A new study conducted in Australia showed that introducing eggs to children before the age of one may reduce the risk of allergy by 17 per cent. The findings were published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.

Jennifer Koplin, Associate Professor at the Child Health Research Centre at The University of Queensland, said: “Australia has one of the highest rates of food allergy in the world, with one in 10 infants allergic to one or more foods".

To curb the allergy rates, the Australian infant feeding guidelines, issued by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy in 2016, revolutionized allergy prevention by advising parents to introduce well-cooked egg and smooth peanut butter soon after starting solid foods, generally around six months of age.

The research, led by a team from UQ and the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, examined 7,200 children in two Australian population-based studies to assess whether egg allergy rates had declined since the introduction of the guidelines. The risk of allergy decreased by 17 per cent among babies who started eating eggs early.

“Most parents followed the guidelines, and these results provide reassurance that this advice will help reduce the chance of their child developing an egg allergy,” Dr Koplin said.

Also read: I Ate Eggs And Toast For Breakfast Every Day—Here’s How My Body Reacted

Lesser Allergy In Infants With Eczema

According to Associate Professor Rachel Peters of the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, the reduction in egg allergy was more pronounced in babies with eczema, a known risk factor for food allergies. Among these children, egg allergy rates were reduced from 35 per cent to 22 per cent.

“The introduction of the 2016 guidelines was a major change from most advice given in the 1990s and early 2000s, which recommended parents delay giving eggs and other allergenic foods until 1–3 years of age if there was a strong family history of allergy,” Dr Peters said.

Allergenic Foods Before Age One

Other common allergy-causing foods, such as cow's milk, fish, sesame, wheat, and tree nuts, are also recommended to be included in a child's diet before one year of age. Dr Koplin, however, urged for more research into food allergies.

Read More: Eating Almonds Daily Can Prevent Cognitive Decline In Prediabetic Adults

Common Symptoms of Egg Allergy

According to the Mayo Clinic, egg allergy symptoms usually start a few minutes to a few hours after eating eggs or foods containing eggs. While egg allergies can occur as early as infancy, most children outgrow their egg allergy by age 16.

Egg allergy symptoms can include:

• Skin swelling or itchy bumps called hives — the most common egg allergy reaction.
• Stuffy or runny nose and sneezing, also known as allergic rhinitis.
• Digestive symptoms such as cramps, upset stomach and vomiting.
• Asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath.

Repeated miscarriages can cause stress and anxiety in couples who are searching for answers. Hence, understanding the possible causes, getting timely investigations, and following the right treatment roadmap can help improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy in the future.

Experiencing a miscarriage can be heartbreaking, but repeated miscarriages can feel even more overwhelming for couples trying to build a family. Many people believe pregnancy loss is simply due to bad luck or stress, but recurrent miscarriages often need proper medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause.

Couples tend to avoid seeking help for repeated miscarriages and keep blaming each other. However, with the help of awareness, timely testing, and the right support, many couples can go on to have successful pregnancies.

What Is Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?

Repeated miscarriage, also called recurrent pregnancy loss, refers to two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. While not every case has a clear explanation, several medical, genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle-related factors may contribute to repeated pregnancy failure.

Hence, couples will have to consult a fertility expert who will help them understand the causes behind the repeated miscarriages.

Why Medical Evaluation Is Important

The roadmap to finding answers: So, the repeated miscarriage will need a detailed medical evaluation of both partners. The expert will review previous pregnancy history, medical conditions, family history, lifestyle habits, and past test results. This helps identify possible patterns or hidden health concerns.

• Genetic testing may be advised because chromosome-related problems in either partner can increase the risk of miscarriage.

• Hormonal issues such as thyroid disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or hormonal imbalance can also affect pregnancy health.

• In some women, structural problems in the uterus, such as fibroids, polyps, scar tissue, or an abnormal uterine shape, may interfere with implantation or fetal growth.

• Blood clotting disorders and immune-related conditions can also increase the risk of pregnancy loss.

Lifestyle Factors Matter Too

Smoking, alcohol, obesity, poor sleep, stress, and unhealthy eating habits may negatively affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Age can also influence egg quality and increase the chances of miscarriage.

Couples must seek timely help for repeated miscarriages, maintain an optimum weight, quit smoking and alcohol, and eat a balanced diet. Stay stress-free by doing yoga and meditation.

Exercise on a daily basis as advised by the expert, go for regular health check-ups and follow-ups with the doctor. Take prescribed supplements such as folic acid regularly. Follow these crucial tips, and it is possible to conceive even after facing repeated miscarriage.