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.

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.

India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has released the National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6), showing major improvements in maternal healthcare, nutrition, immunization, and family planning across the country.

The nationwide survey, which covered nearly 6.79 lakh households across 715 districts, highlighted stronger healthcare access and improved outcomes for women and children in the country.

Key Findings of NFHS-6

The NFHS-6 was conducted during 2023-24 by MoHFW with the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai as the nodal agency.

Maternal Care

NFHS-6 recorded notable gains in maternal and child healthcare services nationwide. Nearly 96 per cent of pregnant women received antenatal care (ANC), while mothers receiving ANC during the first trimester increased from 70.0 per cent to 76.2 per cent.

The percentage of mothers receiving at least four ANC visits also rose from 58.5 per cent to 65.2 per cent, reflecting improved continuity of maternal healthcare services.

Institutional deliveries increased from 88.6 per cent to 90.6 per cent, bringing India closer to universal institutional delivery coverage.

Maternal nutrition indicators also improved significantly. Women consuming iron folic acid supplements for 100 days or more during pregnancy increased from 44.1 per cent to 54.9 per cent. Those consuming supplements for 180 days or more rose from 26.0 per cent to 37.8 per cent.

Family Planning

India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) remained stable at 2.0, while the Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR) increased from 66.7 per cent to 69.1 per cent.

The findings reflect improved access to family planning services and the continued impact of government programs, including Mission Parivar Vikas.

Child Immunization

India also recorded progress towards universal immunization coverage. Full vaccination coverage among children aged 12-23 months increased from 83.8 per cent to 87.1 per cent based on vaccination cards.

More than 95 per cent of children received vaccinations through public health facilities, highlighting continued trust in the public healthcare system.

Coverage of major vaccines improved significantly. Rotavirus vaccination coverage surged from 36.4 per cent to 85.4 per cent, while coverage of the second dose of measles-containing vaccine increased from 58.6 per cent to 71.8 per cent.

The survey also found improvement in child health indicators. Symptoms of acute respiratory infection (ARI) among children declined from 2.8 per cent to 1.9 per cent, while severe diarrhea prevalence fell to 0.5 per cent.

The gains were attributed to stronger last-mile healthcare delivery, improved cold chain systems, digital tracking through U-WIN, and active community participation under the Universal Immunization Program.

Also read: Ebola: Inside India’s RT-PCR Tests For The Bundibugyo Strain| Explained

Child Nutrition Outcomes

NFHS-6 also reported encouraging progress in child nutrition indicators. More than 95 per cent of children under six months were breastfed during the survey period. The percentage of children breastfed within one hour of birth increased from 41.8 per cent to 50.1 per cent.

Stunting among children under five years declined sharply from 35.5 per cent to 29.3 per cent, indicating improvement in long-term nutritional outcomes.

Severe wasting declined from 7.7 per cent to 5.2 per cent, while underweight prevalence among children under five registered a marginal decline from 32.1 per cent to 31.8 per cent.

Infant and young child feeding practices also improved. Children aged 6-8 months receiving solid or semi-solid food along with breastmilk increased from 45.9 per cent to 59.5 per cent.

The birth of a child is often filled with joy, hope, and dreams for the future. But for some families, that journey also begins with an unexpected diagnosis — Down syndrome.

According to health experts, while the news can initially feel overwhelming, understanding the condition and accessing the right support can help children with Down syndrome lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Instead of the usual 46 chromosomes, individuals with Down syndrome are born with 47. This additional chromosome can affect physical growth, learning, speech, and overall development.

Speaking to HealthandMe, Neurologist Dr. Rahul Chawla from ISIC Multispeciality Hospital says families often struggle emotionally after hearing the diagnosis, but understanding that Down syndrome is a genetic condition — and not a disease — can gradually help them move toward acceptance.

He noted that children with Down syndrome may learn and develop differently, but with proper medical care, therapy, emotional support, and inclusive education, many go on to study, work, play sports, and live independently with support.

How The Condition Is Diagnosed

Dr. Sweta Singla, Consultant and Head of Movement Disorder & Neurology at Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, explained to HealthandMe that the condition can often be identified during pregnancy through screening tests such as blood tests and ultrasounds, and confirmed through diagnostic procedures like amniocentesis. After birth, genetic testing helps confirm the diagnosis.

The experts emphasized that early intervention plays a major role in improving quality of life.

"Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy started during infancy can help children develop communication and motor skills more effectively," Dr. Sweta said.

The experts warned that regular medical check-ups are important because children with Down syndrome may be more prone to conditions such as congenital heart defects, thyroid disorders, hearing difficulties, and vision problems.

Every Child Is Different

Children with Down syndrome present distinctive facial features, low muscle tone, delayed developmental milestones, short stature, and mild to moderate intellectual disability. Hearing and vision problems may also occur.

However, all children with Down syndrome have their own personalities, strengths, talents, and emotions, Prof. (Dr.) Brig. Ashok Saxena, Director of Neonatology and Paediatrics at ShardaCare–Healthcity, told HealthandMe.

Also read: Thyroid Disorders Affect Men Too: How They Impact Sperm Health

"Each child with Down syndrome is different – they all have their personalities, strengths, talents, and feelings," he said, adding that while some may take longer to learn speech, movement, or social skills, many are affectionate, emotionally expressive, and socially engaging.

Dr Ashok noted that a diagnosis of Down syndrome can be a very emotional and stressful time for parents.

"It can also be frightening, confusing, and filled with a lot of questions. It is important to keep in mind, though, that a diagnosis of Down syndrome doesn't mean a child's life ends. Children with Down syndrome can live a full and happy life with a loving family and appropriate medical treatment, emotional support, early therapies, and an inclusive environment," he said.

Breaking Stigma And Building Inclusion

Read More: Steroids During COVID Surging Hip Replacement Surgeries In Young Adults, Say Experts

Inclusive education and social acceptance are also considered essential.

The doctors noted that supportive teachers, accessible opportunities, and community awareness can help children gain confidence and independence.

Families are also encouraged to seek counselling and support groups to cope with emotional stress, fear, guilt, or social stigma that may accompany the diagnosis.

Medical professionals say that awareness around Down syndrome has improved significantly over the years, alongside advancements in healthcare and therapies that have enhanced life expectancy and quality of life.