Blocking the immune system's "loopholes"
Five-year-old Nguyen Hai An from Nguyen Giap commune was recently hospitalized with a persistent high fever for several days, accompanied by a rash on her hands, feet, and mouth. Initially, her family thought she only had a common fever and monitored her at home.
However, when the symptoms did not subside but worsened, the family took the child to the hospital. There, doctors diagnosed the child with hand, foot, and mouth disease. During the medical history taking, the doctors noticed that the child had not received all the necessary vaccinations. This was one of the reasons why the disease progressed rapidly and required hospitalization.
According to pediatricians, the transition period from spring to summer, with its high temperatures, high humidity, and unpredictable weather, creates favorable conditions for bacteria and viruses to thrive and spread. Young children, especially those under 5 years old, have underdeveloped immune systems and are therefore susceptible to diseases such as measles, chickenpox, hand, foot and mouth disease, influenza, and encephalitis.
Worryingly, after the disruption caused by the pandemic, vaccination rates in some areas have not been maintained at their previous levels, creating an "immunity gap" in the community. When some children have not received all the necessary doses or have been vaccinated late, the risk of disease spread increases, especially in communal living environments or densely populated residential areas.
Dr. Nguyen Minh Tien, in charge of the Nguyen Luong Bang Commune Health Station, said that many infectious diseases often appear during the summer. These diseases can cause serious complications if not prevented.
Measles can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis. Chickenpox can cause skin infections and meningitis. Japanese encephalitis carries the risk of leaving neurological sequences. Meanwhile, most of these diseases have effective preventive vaccines.
During the summer, the number of parents taking their children for vaccinations tends to increase, but there are still many who hesitate or are not aware of their child's vaccination schedule.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Tuyet (Thuy Nguyen ward) said: “Previously, I thought some minor illnesses didn't require full vaccination. But when my child got chickenpox and had to miss school for almost two weeks, I realized how dangerous it can be to be complacent. Since then, I always keep track of the vaccination schedule and take my child for vaccinations on time.”
According to recommendations from the health sector, children need to receive all vaccines included in the expanded immunization program and other service vaccines such as influenza, chickenpox, Japanese encephalitis, meningococcal meningitis, etc. Proper and complete vaccination not only helps protect individual children from disease but also contributes to community immunity, limiting the risk of outbreaks.
Boosting immunity through family support.
If vaccines are a "proactive shield," then nutrition and home care are the foundation for maintaining children's immunity throughout the summer.
Hot weather can easily make children tired, lose their appetite, and become dehydrated. Meanwhile, food spoils easily if not stored properly, increasing the risk of food poisoning and digestive diseases. Therefore, establishing a proper nutritional regimen plays a particularly important role.
Nutrition experts recommend that children receive a balanced diet including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Increasing the consumption of green vegetables and fresh fruits helps supplement vitamins and boost immunity. At the same time, it's essential to ensure food is cooked thoroughly and water is boiled, while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks.
Besides focusing on diet, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is also crucial for children's well-being. Children need sufficient sleep, adequate hydration, and appropriate physical activity each day. Activities such as swimming, cycling, and playing sports not only promote physical development but also boost natural immunity.
Ms. Tran Minh Anh (Ngo Quyen ward) said: “Summer is when children spend more time at home, so the family pays even more attention to their diet and lifestyle. I limit my child's consumption of fast food, increase their intake of fruits and vegetables, and enroll them in swimming and badminton classes. As a result, my child gets sick much less often.”
In addition, maintaining personal hygiene and a clean living environment is a simple but effective way to prevent disease. Children should wash their hands frequently with soap and clean their noses and throats daily. Families should clean their homes, eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, and keep their living environments well-ventilated.
Doctors also emphasized that during the summer, children often participate in many recreational activities, making them susceptible to injuries or exposure to pathogens. Therefore, parents need to closely monitor their children's health and not be complacent about unusual signs such as high fever, rash, vomiting, and fatigue.
Summer vacation is truly fulfilling when children can play and have fun in good health. Timely vaccinations, nutritious meals, and the care and attention of family all contribute to a strong "shield" that keeps children safe from disease.
HAI MINHSource: https://baohaiphong.vn/tao-la-chan-phong-benh-cho-tre-540606.html
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