- By Bornika Das
- Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:05 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The monsoon season is a welcome respite from the sweltering heat, but it has its own set of health worries, particularly for children. With sudden sniffles and persistent coughs, stomachache, and mosquito-borne illnesses, children are most susceptible this time of year. Schools, parks, and packed classrooms become hotbeds for the quick transmission of germs, and parents find themselves apprehensive about the well-being of their child. Although monsoon illnesses are prevalent, the good news is that the majority of them can be avoided through prompt treatment, proper hygiene, and appropriate nutrition.
Paediatricians stress that education is the key to protection. Recognising the types of ailments that increase during the rains, such as respiratory ailments, waterborne diseases, and mosquito-borne fevers, helps parents take early measures at home. From boosting a child's immunity through seasonal foods to adopting small but effective hygiene practices, small steps can make a big difference in keeping children healthy and cheerful. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Kritika Agarwal, Senior Consultant – Paediatrics, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, shares useful, parent-friendly tips to help your children stay healthy during monsoon.
What Kids Usually Fall Sick With
During the rains, three types of illnesses rise sharply. Dr Kritika Agarwal states, “First, respiratory infections like colds and flu. Second, waterborne diseases such as gastroenteritis and typhoid are caused by contaminated food or water. And third, mosquito-borne infections like dengue, which spread fast among schoolchildren.
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How Parents Can Prevent The Spread
Small steps at home make a big difference. Teach your child to cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing, avoid spitting, and wear a mask if they’re down with a cold. If they’re unwell, keep them home instead of sending them to school. Dr Kritika Agarwal states, “Good ventilation helps, and so does timely vaccination. The flu shot, for instance, reduces the risk of severe influenza.”
When it comes to food and water, hygiene is everything. Make sure your child washes hands before eating, skips roadside food stalls, washes fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoids uncovered or leftover food.
Tips To Keep Children Healthy During Monsoon (Image Credits: Canva)
Keeping Kids Hydrated (Even When They Don’t Ask For Water)
Here’s the tricky part: during the rains, kids don’t feel as thirsty, but their bodies still need fluids. Don’t wait for them to ask. Offer plain water, warm soups, lemonade, or fruit smoothies. You can make it fun by playing with colours. Kids are more likely to sip if the drink looks interesting. Just steer clear of packaged juices or anything with artificial sweeteners.
Food That Boosts Immunity
Think colourful plates. The more natural colours you add, like tomatoes, beetroot, red cabbage, okra, berries, the richer the meal is in antioxidants. Dr Kritika Agarwal mentions, “Add in immunity-friendly ingredients like turmeric, ginger, honey, and peppers. And if your child is already under the weather, warm liquids and comforting foods go a long way.”
Clearing Up Some Monsoon Myths
A lot of parents worry about things that aren’t really the problem. Getting drenched in the rain doesn’t cause illness; germs do. Cold foods and fruits aren’t dangerous either, as long as they’re clean and fresh. In fact, fruits should be encouraged for their immunity benefits. And don’t depend on your child’s thirst alone; remind them to drink fluids regularly.
Monsoon doesn’t have to mean a cycle of sickness. Children can enjoy the season without getting recurrent colds and fevers if they receive the proper care, nutrition, and hygiene.