• 1 month ago

Protecting Children from Fall and Winter Illnesses

Why Do Winter Illnesses Increase?

In the fall and winter:

  • Cooler temperatures dry out nasal passages
  • Children spend more time indoors in close contact
  • Poor air circulation facilitates viral transmission
  • Less sunlight reduces vitamin D and weakens immune response

As a result, we see a rise in:

  • Colds
  • Influenza (flu)
  • Bronchiolitis (RSV)
  • Croup
  • Ear infections
  • Sinusitis
  • Viral stomach bugs

Top Prevention Strategies

1. Hygiene Habits

  • Teach your child to wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap
  • Encourage coughing/sneezing into the elbow, not hands
  • Clean commonly touched surfaces and toys regularly
  • Wash hands after school, playgrounds, or shopping trips

2. Dress for the Weather

  • Use layers that can be removed if overheating
  • Cover head, hands, and feet when going out
  • Change out of wet clothing promptly
  • Avoid sudden temperature shifts (indoor-outdoor transitions)

3. Vaccination Protection

  • Flu shot: Recommended annually for children over 6 months
  • COVID-19 vaccines: Based on age and local guidelines
  • Routine vaccinations: Ensure your child is up to date
  • RSV monoclonal antibody (if indicated): For preterm or high-risk infants

4. Immune-Supporting Lifestyle

  • Balanced diet with at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily
  • Encourage hydration, even in cold weather
  • Ensure adequate sleep based on age (10–14 hrs for young children)
  • Aim for 15–30 minutes of outdoor play daily, even in winter
  • Vitamin D supplementation as prescribed by your doctor

5. At School or Daycare

  • Keep sick children home
  • Ventilate classrooms regularly
  • Educate staff on cough etiquette and hygiene practices
  • Consider masks during flu outbreaks, if advised

Seasonal Care with Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu

  • Reviewing your child’s individual health and risk profile
  • Creating a personalized winter wellness plan
  • Addressing vitamin and iron needs before peak season
  • Counseling families on vaccination timing and safety
  • Supporting schools and daycare centers with health education
  • Monitoring high-risk children with asthma, allergies, or chronic conditions