Shubhrajit Ghosh

Seasonal Flu

Seasonal Flu is a common respiratory infection caused by human seasonal influenza viruses. It is different from avian influenza. Avian influenza is caused by the influenza viruses that normally affect birds and poultry, such as chickens or ducks. These AI virus does not commonly infect human, there is little immunity power against them in the human population. People generally become infected with avian influenza through direct contact with infected birds and poultry (live or dead), their droppings, or contaminated environments.

The seasonal flu (influenza) can cause serious illness. Certain groups of people do have a higher risk of developing serious health conditions from the flu, especially children.Flu is most common during the winter months. Peak levels usually occur between late December and early March. You can actually avoid the seasonal flu by getting vaccinated your child every year.

Symptoms

a. sudden fever,
b. chills and shakes,
c. headache,
d. muscle aches,
e. extreme fatigue,
f. dry cough,
g. sore throat, and
h. loss of appetite.

How to know if my child has influenza?

Children with the flu may have the same symptoms as adults, but there can be differences:

a. Newborn babies may have a high fever.

b. Young children usually have temperatures over 39.5°C and may have fever fit.

c. Upset stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea are common in younger children. 

d. Earaches and red eyes 

e. In some cases, muscle inflammation can lead to severe leg or back pain. 

What should I do if my child has influenza?

a. Keep your child as comfortable as possible.
b. dress them in lightweight clothing.
c. Gargling with warm water will soothe a sore throat.

When should I call my doctor?

Contact your child specialist, if
a. your baby is having a breathing problem
b. high fever for a couple of days.
c. breathing rapidly.
d. chest pain
e. coughing badly
f. vomiting.

Importance of Flu vaccine

The yearly flu (influenza) vaccine is needed for all children 6 months and older. Influenza is a respiratory infection that can cause severe complications, particularly in young children. The flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu and its complications. The flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk.
The flu vaccine is very important this season. The flu and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) show almost common symptoms. The flu vaccine reduces the severity of flu illness and you can avoid hospitalization due to this precautionary vaccine.
There are two types of flu vaccines. One is a flu shot and the other is nasal spray flu vaccine. Depending on your child’s age and health, you should choose between the flu shot and the nasal spray flu vaccine.

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The phase of early childhood development is the most important phase of life. Children need appropriate support from families, education, and healthcare professionals to reach their full potential during this period.

The importance of child development

After birth, The first three years are the periods when rapid growth and development occur, as a child’s brain creates complex neural pathways at an unprecedented speed. When the age is six, the brain has developed to 90% of its adult size, as children continue to absorb a staggering amount of information from their experiences and environment. These early experiences, both good and bad, lay the foundation for a child’s future survival, growth, health, and well-being. Research has consistently shown that good early childhood development has a direct positive impact on a child’s long-term health outcomes and improves future opportunities, school attainment and even earning potential. Another important impact of this period is the child’s emotional and social development, which is vital for their future confidence, communication, relationships, community inclusion, and mental health.

Steps of Healthy Child Development

1. Good Health: Parents should motivate good health by protecting the child from household and environmental danger, adopting good hygiene practices, and using promotive, preventive, and curative healthcare services. Parents should also take care of their child’s emotional state by responding affectionately and appropriately to their child’s needs.

2. Adequate Nutrition: Essential micronutrients are very important for a child’s brain and body to develop, both during a mother’s pregnancy and in the early period after birth. Essential nutrients may include proteins and fats to help the growth of the body and vitamin A to build the child’s immune system. 

3. Responsive Caregiving: Observation and response to a child’s physical, psychological and emotional needs are important for a child’s health, learning, and social relationships.

4. Security and Safety: Young children are incredibly unsafe to numerous threats within their environment. Children who do not feel safe and secure by a parent can withdraw socially and act fearful of adults and other children.

If you are anxious about your child’s development then you can connect with Dr. Sovana Hoque, the best child specialist in Kolkata at Child & Wellness Care for the best childcare clinic in Newtown Kolkata.