Why are infants at a high risk of infection in winter?

Read about the tips on how to prevent infections in infants during winters.

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Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : December 12, 2017 2:00 PM IST

During winter we all have to be extra careful about our health and wellness, especially pregnant women and older people. But the ones who require special attention and protection are infants because they are at a high risk of infections during winter. So we have Dr Brig Ashok K Rajput, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Venkateshwar Hospital explaining how the cold weather in winter can put infants at risk of infection and providing tips to prevent it.

Dr Brig Ashok K Rajput says In general, the resistance and immunity is low in adults during the cold season. However, in the case of newborn babies, the immune system is still developing, which is the reason infants are more susceptible to the prevalent viruses and pathogens in the atmosphere. Also, the lungs in infants and kids are more susceptible to the effects of air pollution and dust allergies. This is why we see a lot of children suffering from breathing problems or lung allergies in highly polluted cities during this time of the season." If you are planning a winter outing with your infant, keep these things in mind.

What to do to prevent infections in infants?

As known, pollution coupled with winter cold can worsen the health of the infants. So to lower the risk, keep the infants away from common triggers of allergies such as mold, house dust mites, animal dander and perfumes. Also, pet dander, smoke, gas fumes, dust mites and winter cold can make the nose watery and eyes itchy. Therefore, be attentive to your newborn and observe whether her cold and sneezing is triggered by any of these factors. It should also be noted that while a seasonal cough or cold is temporary, allergies are life-long and can be hereditary as well. Here are few tips on how to prevent infections in infants during winters.

  • Dress the infants in layers of clothing and keep your infant warm and comfortable. Remove the layers to adjust to the change in ambient temperature. Here are ways to keep your baby warm this winter and not overdo it.
  • Infants tend to lose heat faster than adults and thus need greater protection. But overheating through clothes can cause rashes. So do keep a tab on it.
  • Consider using humidifiers if the air in your home is too dry. Never use coal-based heaters as it can cause a build-up of carbon monoxide in the house.
  • Wash your hands before handling an infant. Here's more on expert tips to take care of your baby this winter.
  • Mothers should stick to breastfeeding as it provides greater immunity to infants.

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