Introduction
Weather is changing and “Winter is coming”. So the season of viral infections in children is approaching. Last week, my son was diagnosed with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) . He experienced significant difficulty breathing, particularly at night while sleeping. While I personally believe that viral infections like RSV can be effectively managed through home remedies, my wife, being more concerned for his immediate well-being, insisted on visiting the doctor and starting a course of antibiotics.
I am generally against the use of antibiotics in children, especially for viral infections, as they often do more harm than good when overused. Unfortunately, in Asian Culture, there is a prevalent tendency to rely on antibiotics as a quick fix, which can lead to health issues in the long run.
This compelled me to write something about these Viral infections that come with the change in weather. Particularly transitioning from warmer to colder months increases the risk of viral infections, especially in children. Viruses like the common cold, flu, and respiratory infections spread more easily with variations in temperatures. The Children going to school, playing with each other and having less strong immune systems are caught by these infections more easily.
Why Do Viral Infections in Children Increase with Weather Changes?
Below are a few important reasons that contribute to higher risks of getting viral infections during weather shifts.
Cold Temperatures and Immune System Response:
With regular fluctuations in temperature, the body vessels struggle to maintain temperature across the blood veins and organs. This weakens the immune system and its ability to fight against foreign objects and viruses. Children whose immune systems is still developing are more prone to getting these Viral Infections like colds and flu.
Lower Humidity Levels:
Cold weather usually comes with a low level of humidity, it results in drying out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat. These membranes act as a first line of defence by trapping viruses and bacteria. When they dry out, it’s easier for viruses to enter the body and cause infection, making children more prone to respiratory illnesses.
Increased Indoor Crowding:
Increased indoor crowding is a major cause of viral infections in children. When the temperature decreases people tend to spend more time indoors than outdoors. This close contact especially in children increases the risk of getting viruses like cold, flu and others.
Vitamin D Deficiency: Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a strong immune system. During colder months, reduced sunlight exposure can lead to lower vitamin D levels in children, further weakening their immune response and increasing the risk of viral infections.
Common Viral Infections in Children During Seasonal Transitions
| Virus | Common Symptoms | How it Spreads |
| Rhinovirus (Common Cold) | Runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever | Spread through airborne droplets from coughs/sneezes and surfaces |
| Influenza (Flu) | High fever, body aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat | Spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact with surfaces |
| Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) | Wheezing, cough, difficulty breathing, runny nose | Spread through direct contact, droplets, and contaminated surfaces |
| Adenovirus | Sore throat, fever, pink eye, diarrhea, vomiting | Spread via close contact, droplets, and touching contaminated surfaces |
| Enterovirus | Fever, runny nose, cough, rash, sore throat, diarrhea | Spread through close contact, touching surfaces, and respiratory droplets |
| Parainfluenza Virus | Croup (barking cough), fever, runny nose, sore throat | Spread via respiratory droplets and contaminated objects |
Prevention Tips for Parents
Frequent Handwashing:
Encourage children to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and after playing outdoors.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes:
Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
Avoid Touching Face:
Remind children to avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth, where viruses can enter the body.
When to Seek Medical Help
Prolonged or High Fever:
If your child has a fever that lasts more than 3 days or if the fever is higher than 102°F (38.9°C) and doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications, consult a doctor.
Breathing Difficulties:
- If your child is having trouble breathing, is breathing rapidly, or you notice wheezing or grunting, these are signs of respiratory distress and require immediate medical attention.
- Bluish lips or face is a sign of oxygen deficiency and should be treated as an emergency.
Severe Cough:
A persistent cough that doesn’t improve, especially if accompanied by wheezing, a barking sound (croup), or difficulty catching breath, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Dehydration:
Signs of dehydration include a dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, fewer wet diapers, or dark urine. If your child refuses to drink fluids or shows these signs, seek medical help.
Lethargy or Unusual Drowsiness:
If your child is unusually
drowsy,
difficult to wake,
or shows a significant decrease in activity levels,
this could be a sign of a more serious infection. Your child should be checked by a doctor.
Persistent Vomiting or Diarrhea:
If your child has ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, especially if it lasts for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by signs of dehydration, it’s important to get medical advice.
Ear Pain or Discharge:
Ear infections can sometimes accompany viral infections in children. If your child complains of ear pain, or if you notice fluid or pus coming from the ear, see a doctor.
Severe Headache or Stiff Neck:
A severe headache, especially with a stiff neck or sensitivity to light, could be a sign of a more serious infection such as meningitis and should be evaluated urgently.
My Two Cents
Weather shifts are a great challenge for parents. Although viral infections in children are not considered very serious yet if not treated properly they can become serious. Ever since I have become a parent I do not remember the last time I had a peaceful winter. I mean Come on! Fever, Sneezes and runny noses are a common phenomenon among kids of growing age.
Although it is considered quite normal for kids to fall sick it becomes more traumatic when you are going through the same as well but cannot take a second to rest. I hope after reading this blog you will be able to prepare yourself in advance for the upcoming weather challenges. Take care of yourself and your kids… LOVE