What Pediatricians Want Parents to Know Before the Monsoon Season Hits
The monsoon brings relief from the scorching summer, but it also brings a spike in infections, allergies, and health concerns—especially in children. At Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital, our team of the best paediatricians in Kurukshetra sees a significant rise in seasonal illnesses during this time. Whether it’s the common cold, mosquito-borne diseases, or gastrointestinal troubles, the wet season requires a proactive parenting approach.
To help you stay ahead, we’ve compiled this comprehensive monsoon health guide straight from our pediatric experts. Here's everything parents should know before the monsoon hits—from immunity-boosting tips to hygiene habits and emergency signs to watch for.
1. Why Is the Monsoon a Risky Season for Kids?
The monsoon creates an ideal environment for bacteria, viruses, and parasites to thrive. Humidity and stagnant water become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and germs. Kids, with their developing immune systems, are more prone to falling sick. The most common illnesses during this season include:
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Viral fevers
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Cold and cough
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Flu
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Diarrhea
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Typhoid
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Dengue and Malaria
Understanding these risks helps you prevent, detect, and manage these health issues before they become serious.
2. Strengthen Your Child’s Immunity—Start Before the Rains Begin
Our pediatricians at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital emphasize the importance of building immunity before the monsoon sets in. Here’s how:
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Nutrition is key: Include vitamin C-rich fruits (oranges, guava, kiwi), zinc-rich foods (nuts, whole grains), and probiotics like yogurt.
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Hydration: Encourage plenty of boiled or filtered water.
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Sleep: Make sure your child gets 8–10 hours of quality sleep.
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Outdoor play hygiene: If they play outside, ensure a thorough wash-up afterward.
A strong immune system helps your child fight off infections naturally.
3. Rainy Season Diet: What to Feed and What to Avoid
Food contamination is a leading cause of monsoon illness in children. Here's a pediatrician-approved monsoon diet:
What to Include:
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Home-cooked warm meals
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Boiled vegetables
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Steamed or grilled snacks over fried ones
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Soups and broths to keep the gut happy
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Seasonal fruits, washed thoroughly
What to Avoid:
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Raw salads from outside
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Cut fruits from vendors
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Street food
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Cold drinks and ice lollies
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Excess sugar (weakens immunity)
Remember, “Clean eating equals clean health.”
4. Hygiene Habits Every Child Must Learn
Monsoon or not, hygiene is always a must. But during the rainy season, it's even more critical. Here’s what your child should be taught:
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Frequent hand washing—especially after playing and before eating.
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Bathing daily, even if it’s chilly. Add a few drops of antiseptic to bathwater.
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Trimmed nails to prevent dirt accumulation.
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Dry feet thoroughly, especially between toes, to avoid fungal infections.
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Avoid touching the face or rubbing eyes with dirty hands.
Instilling these habits early helps prevent many seasonal infections.
5. Watch Out for These Monsoon Illnesses in Kids
The best paediatricians in Kurukshetra urge parents to know the early signs of common monsoon ailments:
1. Common Cold & Flu
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Symptoms: Sneezing, sore throat, mild fever
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Tip: Keep your child warm and hydrated. Visit a pediatrician if fever persists for more than 2 days.
2. Diarrhea & Food Poisoning
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Symptoms: Loose stools, stomach cramps, vomiting
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Tip: Maintain strict food hygiene and offer ORS (oral rehydration salts).
3. Dengue & Malaria
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Symptoms: High fever, headache, body ache, skin rash (in dengue)
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Tip: Avoid mosquito bites—use nets, repellents, and cover arms and legs.
4. Skin Infections
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Symptoms: Rashes, itching, redness
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Tip: Keep skin dry. Use pediatric-recommended antifungal powders or creams.
Always consult a pediatrician if you notice persistent symptoms or worsening conditions.
6. Keep Mosquitoes Out—Naturally and Effectively
Stagnant rainwater invites mosquitoes, which carry dengue and malaria. Here’s how to mosquito-proof your home:
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Use mosquito nets, especially while sleeping.
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Apply child-safe repellents like citronella patches or roll-ons.
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Empty or cover water-collecting items like flower pots, coolers, and open containers.
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Install screens on windows and doors.
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Dress your child in light-colored, full-sleeved clothing.
Preventing mosquito bites is easier than treating mosquito-borne diseases.
7. Proper Clothing Choices During the Monsoon
Your child’s clothes play a role in their health. Here’s what pediatricians suggest:
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Choose light, breathable cotton fabrics to avoid sweat and rashes.
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Use quick-drying clothes to prevent the chill from damp fabrics.
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Keep an extra set of clothes in their school bag in case they get wet.
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Always change wet socks and shoes immediately to prevent fungal infections.
Dry and comfortable clothing can make a big difference in preventing illnesses.
8. Are Vaccinations Up to Date?
Infectious diseases rise during the monsoon. Ensuring your child’s immunization schedule is up to date is crucial.
Talk to your pediatrician at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital about vaccines such as:
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Flu vaccine
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Typhoid vaccine
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Hepatitis A
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Cholera vaccine (if recommended)
Vaccination is the first line of defense against seasonal illnesses.
9. When to Visit the Pediatrician: Don’t Wait Too Long
Many parents delay doctor visits, hoping symptoms will pass. But with children, early intervention is key. You should see a pediatrician if your child has:
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High fever that lasts more than 48 hours
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Continuous vomiting or diarrhea
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Dehydration signs (dry lips, sunken eyes, no urine for 6+ hours)
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Breathing difficulty
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Skin rashes with fever
The best paediatricians in Kurukshetra at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital are trained to handle all pediatric monsoon emergencies with care and experience.
10. Building a Monsoon-Ready First Aid Kit for Kids
Prepare for emergencies by keeping a child-safe monsoon health kit at home. Include:
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Digital thermometer
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Antiseptic cream and lotion
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Pediatric fever reducer (as prescribed)
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Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
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Mosquito repellent
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Antifungal powder
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Band-aids and cotton swabs
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Electrolyte packets
Keep your pediatrician’s number handy for emergencies or video consultations.
Conclusion: Prepare, Prevent, Protect—The Monsoon Parenting Mantra
As the skies turn grey and puddles form, remember: the monsoon doesn’t have to mean illness. With the right precautions, a balanced diet, proper hygiene, and timely medical care, you can ensure your child enjoys the season safely and healthily.
The team of best paediatricians in Kurukshetra at Shri Balaji Aarogyam Hospital is always here to guide you through seasonal health challenges. From preventive care to emergency treatment, we’re committed to your child’s well-being—rain or shine.
Stay safe, stay dry, and let your kids enjoy the monsoon—with peace of mind.
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