5 Common Summer Diseases in Kids and Tips to Prevent

Who loves summers more than kids? Why? 

Summer Vacations!

It is the best time for them to have a lot of fun and activity, go to outstations, play outside with friends, picnic, splash in pools, and make memories that last a lifetime. The list goes on and on.

While summers are all about fun and enjoyment for children, they are also a time of infections. The scorching sun and all that outdoor fun increase the risk of infections for our little ones. 

Don't worry, though!

With some preparation and knowing what to watch out for, parents can easily keep their kids healthy and ensure their summer days are filled with joy, not sniffles and tummy aches.

In this blog, let’s explore five common summer infections that can make your child sick. Also, a further read will help you find its symptoms, causes, and, effective ways most importantly, how to prevent the same. With these simple tips, you can help your children stay healthy and make the most of this special season. So, grab your sunscreen, pack some wholesome snacks, and dive into keeping your kids infection-free this summer!

Also read- Tips for Kids' Health in Summer: Keeping Your Little Ones Happy and Healthy

5 Common Summer Diseases to Watch Out For in Kids

Summer is a time for fun—sunshine, swimming, and adventures! But with long, warm days comes the risk of certain diseases and infections. Therefore, to keep your little ones healthy, prevent these diseases. Here are 5 common summer diseases to watch out for in kids, their causes, symptoms, and tips on preventing them. 

1. Insect bites and stings

According to experts, insects like mosquitoes, ants, and bees are more active in the summer, increasing the chances of kids getting insect bites and stings.

Causes

• Mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs, and chiggers
• Bees, wasps, yellow jackets, ants (fire ants)

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Redness and itching
• A small bump
• Sharp pain

How to prevent it?

• Consider hats with mosquito netting for protection.
• Use a safe and effective insect repellent that is approved for children. Look for repellents containing DEET (follow product instructions carefully). 
• When going outside, dress your child in long sleeves, pants, and socks, especially in tall grass or wooded areas.
• Avoid areas with high insect populations.

Also Read- Boost Your Health This Summer with These Healthy Summer Foods

2. Gastrointestinal Infection

Children love street foods like noodles, burgers, pizzas, etc. But did you know these are the major factors in food poisoning and stomach infections? Yes, gastrointestinal infection, also called the "stomach flu," is a common illness in children that affects the stomach and intestines. Unhygienic outside food and contaminated water can make your kid fall sick.

What is the cause of a stomach infection?

• Viruses (most common) like rotavirus or norovirus 
• Bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella 
• Parasites 

What are the symptoms of stomach infection?

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration

How to treat a child's stomach infection?

• Practice good hygiene and wash hands regularly.
• Drink water from safe and clean sources
• Avoid eating outside from unhygienic places.
• Eat healthy and stay hydrated.

Also read- Important Blood Tests to Detect Stomach Infection

3. Fungal Infections

Do you agree that Summers and sweating are related? Yes. 

Summers are known for intense heat and excessive sweating, which create an ideal environment for fungal infections to grow. The most affected areas by fungal infections are the underarms, body folds, and groin. 

What are the causes of fungal infection in children?

• Candida fungus can cause diaper rash (thrush) or white patches on the inner cheeks or tongue.
• Tinea fungus causes ringworm, a red, itchy, circular rash that can appear on the scalp (scalp ringworm), body (tinea corporis), or feet (athlete's foot).

Symptoms of fungal infection

• Itching
• Redness
• Skin Rashes
• Skin Allergy

Also read- Simple Home Remedies for Fungal Infections.

How do you treat a fungal infection in a child?

• Maintain good hygiene to prevent fungal infections.
• Keep your children indoors, as sweating can make fungal infections worse.
• Don't share towels or clothes with others.
• Wear clean clothes, especially undergarments. 
• Avoid wearing too tight clothes for long hours.
• Avoid pets. 

Also Read- Fungal infections of the skin: symptoms, causes, and treatment.

4. Dehydration

Who can stop kids from playing outside? You can't, Right? After All, they have summer vacations; as parents, you want your children to enjoy the time. However, excessive sweating and water depletion can dehydrate kids during the summer.

What are the signs of dehydration in a child?

•  Increased thirst
• Dry mouth and lips decreased urination 
• Fatigue
• Irritability 
• Sunken eyes
• Feel disoriented
• Experience headaches

How to treat a dehydrated child?

• For babies, breastmilk or formula are ideal sources of hydration. 
• Even if your child isn't thirsty, offer sips of water or milk throughout the day.
• Give them Popsicles or frozen yogurt treats. 
• Include buttermilk, coconut water, watermelon, lemonade, and fresh fruits in their diet.

Must Read- 5 Juicy Fruits to Keep You Cool & Hydrated During Summer Season

5. Sunburn and Sunstroke

When the temperature increases, sunburn, sunstroke, and heat rashes arise. Exposure to long hours of sun in conjunction with dehydration can mess with the body's ability to regulate normal temperature, causing sunstroke and sunburn and damaging brain cells. 

The harmful ultraviolet rays can penetrate your delicate skin and can cause sunburn. Sunburn can cause itchy, dry blisters and red skin. 

What are the symptoms of sunburn?

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Rapid heartbeat
• Muscle cramps

How can sunburn and sunstroke stop burning?

• Children have sensitive skin and can burn quickly. To protect from sunburn, apply sunscreen with high SPF.
• Take an umbrella while going outside.
• Cover your head to avoid intense exposure to the sun, you can use a summer hat or cooling head gears.
• Wear covered clothes to avoid sun exposure.
• Consider limiting your outdoor activities during peak hours of sun.
• Drink plenty of fluids.

Also Read- Summer Season Fruits: fruits that can balance water and nutrition levels in your body.

Another common disease in kids during summers

Below are some diseases that may affect your kids in summer-

1. Food poisoning

Outside food and drinks may contain bacteria, viruses, or toxins, which can cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, vomiting, and more. Therefore, avoid eating street foods and fried food from unhygienic places. Wash your hands before eating. 

2. Enteroviruses

It is a group of viruses that can cause respiratory infections in kids. It most affects hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). It causes symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, mouth sores, and blisters on hands and feet. To prevent this, teach your child to frequently hand wash after using the bathroom and before eating. Spray disinfectant on surfaces and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

3. Heat Rash

Prickly heat or heat rash occurs due to blocked sweat ducts that cause itchy bumps. Kids are more prone to heat rash due to underdeveloped sweat glands. To prevent this, dress your child in loose, breathable clothing and get regular bathing.

4. Hay fever

The hay fever is an allergic reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold, often worse during summer. It can cause symptoms like runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, watery eyes, and congestion. Try to limit exposure to triggers by staying indoors during high pollen counts. Consult your doctor if needed. 

Also Read- 9 Essential Tips To Keep Your Child Fit And Healthy This Summer!

Keep your Kids Healthy this Summer Season!

Summer and the love of summer vacation are very important for children. As parents, you should not stop them from playing outside; instead, take preventive measures so that they can enjoy their summer vacations to the fullest. 

Teach your kids the importance of handwashing, staying hydrated, and practicing good hygiene. 

If you have concerns about your child's health or suspect they might be experiencing symptoms of these diseases, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can make a big difference in a speedy recovery.

 In addition, with a little planning and awareness, it’s possible to summer season with your kids and have lasting memories and happy adventures for your entire family. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your water bottles, and get ready to conquer the summer with healthy and happy kids by your side!

Also Read- Summer Health Tips To Be Followed To Enjoy Healthy Summers