Essential Child Care Tips During Monsoon Season in Pakistan

The monsoon season in Pakistan, while refreshing and vital for agriculture, brings with it a host of health challenges — especially for children. The humid weather, stagnant water, and fluctuating temperatures can lead to a rise in infections, allergies, and other health-related issues. As a medical professional, I want to guide parents and caregivers on how to ensure their children remain healthy, happy, and protected during this unpredictable season.

1. Understanding the Risks of Monsoon for Children

Children are naturally more vulnerable to environmental changes due to their developing immune systems. The monsoon season significantly increases the risk of:

Waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria
Respiratory infections, including flu, cold, and bronchitis
Skin infections caused by fungus or bacteria due to wet clothes and constant humidity

Hence, preventive care is more important than treatment during this time.

2. Maintain Personal Hygiene

Cleanliness is the first line of defense against infections. Here's what you should do:

Ensure children wash their hands with soap after coming home from school or playing outside.
Keep their nails trimmed and clean to prevent the accumulation of germs.
Bathing daily is essential, especially if the child gets wet in the rain. Add a few drops of antiseptic liquid (like Dettol or Savlon) to the bathing water if needed.
Change wet clothes immediately to avoid fungal skin infections.

3. Safe and Nutritious Diet

Food and water hygiene can drastically reduce the chances of gastrointestinal problems.

Give children boiled or filtered water only.
Avoid roadside or unhygienic food, especially items like gol gappay, chaat, or fruit salads.
Prefer home-cooked meals, with lightly cooked vegetables and seasonal fruits like guava, banana, and pomegranate.
Strengthen immunity through a balanced diet containing vitamin C, iron, and zinc.

4. Mosquito Protection is Crucial

Stagnant water in pots, coolers, or drains is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Use mosquito repellents and nets, especially at night.
Dress children in light-colored, full-sleeved clothing to minimize skin exposure.
Remove any standing water near the home and ensure proper drainage.

5. Dress Appropriately

Monsoon weather can shift from hot and humid to cold and damp very quickly.

Use cotton clothes that are breathable and quick to dry.
Keep an extra set of clothes and a raincoat or umbrella with your child if they go to school or tuition.
Always dry wet shoes and socks properly before the next use to avoid fungal infections.

6. Be Alert to Early Symptoms

Prompt attention can prevent mild conditions from becoming serious.

Monitor for symptoms like fever, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, rashes, or lethargy.
Keep a first-aid kit at home with fever reducers (like paracetamol), antiseptic ointments, and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution).
Do not self-medicate—consult a child specialist if symptoms persist for more than 1–2 days.

7. Indoor Activities and Safety

Since outdoor play may be limited, encourage indoor games or educational activities to keep children engaged.

Ensure the indoor environment is clean and dry.
Prevent water seepage and dampness, as these can cause respiratory issues or mold-related allergies.

8. Vaccination and Regular Checkups

Make sure your child’s vaccination schedule is up to date, particularly for diseases that may spread during monsoon, like hepatitis A or typhoid.

If your child has an underlying condition like asthma or eczema, keep their medications handy and have a check-up during the early days of the monsoon.

Search This Blog

Dr. Muhammad Zeeshan Khan, MBBS, FCPS, Child Specialist