How to keep your Baby Healthy during Weather changes?
It is a common observation that baby falls sick when weather change occurs. Even adults at home are down with viral fever, colds and fever due to infections. Follow these simple steps to keep your baby healthy and prevent baby from getting sick.
Breast feed and Immunize:
Your baby’s immune system will be strong with breast feeding and following the immunization calendar promptly. Do ensure to breastfeed your baby for the first six months and also ensure the vaccinations schedules are adhered to.
Dress for the weather:
Dress your baby as the weather demands. In summer preferable choose light colors and light wear. In winters dress the baby in layers such that you can add or remove clothing as the weather change occurs and the sun is up. Ensure your baby is dressed comfortably.
Bathe your baby safely:
Maintain less gap for the baby after a massage to avoid catching a cold. The solution is to avoid exposing your baby to sudden temperature changes. Ensure there is no contact with cool or chilled air during massage or bathing process. Select baby’s bath time when the baby is least likely to feel cold. Dress up the baby and then only put on the fan. Follow precautions while putting on the AC or air cooler.
Provide a Balanced diet:
Maintain a balanced diet when your baby moves to solids. A good diet provides vitamins and minerals she needs to help fight infections. If the child is a fussy eater, make sure she gets enough vitamins and minerals.
Follow hygiene:
Babies are very sensitive and catch infections quickly from people passing by too. Therefore ensure you maintain a hygienic environment and avoid sneezing, coughing with the baby around. Wash hands with disinfectant prior to handling the baby.
Cleaning Baby accessories:
Ensure toys are not left on the floor. If washable clean them. Ensure the rooms and surroundings are not dusty. If your baby goes to a Day care center inform and create awareness to maintain hygiene while feeding and handling the baby. Restrict movement of street wear inside the rooms. Seek support from other parents to practice hygiene.
Inspite of all your best efforts your little one may fall sick once in a while. Your precautionary measures will keep the baby free from repeated illnesses. Getting sick is a way to challenge baby’s immune system. Do not delay visit to the doctor upon observing symptoms of sickness, cold, diarrhea, vomiting etc.
Hope you have a better understanding to keep your baby healthy during weather changes. Irrespective of the season, do not be worried over small illnesses observed. Take good care and avoid baby falling severely sick as it will take time to recover from any illness however minor it may sound.
Do not break down. Be alert when the baby has fever and give medications timely. The baby will be back with bouncing energy to make you happy.
It is not safe to use an Air Conditioner(AC) or Air cooler for a newborn baby?
Yes, it is not safe to use an Air Conditioner(AC) or Air cooler for a newborn baby if you do not follow the basic precautionary measures. Pediatricians recommend to keep the baby in cool and airy environment than to let him remain in hot, airless and humid environment.
Babies are delicate and cannot adjust to external weather changes quickly as adults do. This is the main reason for babies to get affected with overheat and associated illnesses such as prickly heat, heat rash, dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
It is generally observed that babies sleep well and are comfortable when the room is properly cooled and ventilated. This will nullify the chances of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Watch out that the room does not become too cold i.e too low than the baby’s body temperature and chill him. This could lead to other health complications.
You need to follow these precautionary measures to keep your baby safe and comfortable in hot summer days while using an AC or air cooler.
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Ensure the room temperature is between 23 and 27 deg C
External heat changes and humidity variations can have an impact on the functioning of the AC or air cooler. Your room can get too cold very quickly making it uncomfortable for the baby. Baby will be restless due to too much coolness.
- For AC: Set the timer for the duration it takes to cool the room. If your AC does not have an inbuilt timer, you can use an alarm clock for convenience of reminding. If your AC does not have a temperature display, maintain a thermometer in the room to monitor the temperature and manage your newborn baby.
- If your room has an air cooler, leave a window or door partly open to let the flow of air. This is mandatory in monsoon when the weather is humid. As the Air cooler evaporates water to cool the room, it increases the humidity in the air. If the room is closed, the humidity keeps going up, cooling will stop and the room becomes extremely hot and sticky.
In humid weather it is suggested to use a fan or AC in place of an air cooler.
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No direct blow of cold air from the AC or air cooler
Cover your baby with light layers especially a light cap for his head, small cotton socks to cover his feet. Dress your baby in thin cotton clothes to protect his legs and arms. Use light colors as dark colors will absorb heat. Keeping him covered will avoid direct cold air.
If you are covering the baby with a cloth / thin blanket ensure it does not cover his face ( avoiding suffocation incidents)
Too much of clothes and wrapping him snugly will make the baby uncomfortable, remember basic protection from cold air is sufficient.
Read: How To Keep Your Baby Comfortable and Healthy in Summer
Other watch outs while using AC or Air cooler:
- Service your AC / Air cooler timely to allow clean and efficient cooling. You will not come across surprises like breakdowns during peak summer making your baby sick and inactive.
- Moisturize your newborn baby’s skin as the AC / cooler air will make the skin dry. Few moms place a basin with water in the room to make the room moist.
- Avoid taking your baby to warmer conditions immediately from an AC room. Sudden temperature changes will make the baby feel sick. Ideally you need to switch off the AC and make him get used to the room temperature and then plan to go out in the hot weather.
- If you plan traveling by car, cool down by keeping the windows open for some time and then putting on the AC especially if the car was out in the sun. This will remove all trapped air. The hot air external air blowing in from the windows can be risky and may cause nose bleeding. Avoid direct blast of external hot air.
- If the baby is placed in a cradle ensure there is sufficient air for the baby and there are no obstructions.
You can follow the traditional way to keep the room cool during a power cut, blow with a handmade fan. Place the baby on the floor and dress him with light clothes. Ensure baby’s movement is monitored.
Draw the curtains to avoid direct sun rays. Thick curtain materials will keep the bright rays out. Make the baby become equipped at all weather conditions. It isn’t required to use the AC or air cooler all the time. When it isn’t hot and humid you can use the ceiling fan and maintain temperature of the room.
Keep a close watch on your newborn babies routine and make adjustments to suit your baby’s health. More care should be taken for a premature baby in hot sultry conditions.Concluding with the message that is is safe to use an AC or Air cooler provided you follow basic precautionary measures like room temperature maintenance,etc…
Shaving a baby’s head makes the hair grow thicker and stronger
Most of us have heard this statement that shaving a baby’s head makes the hair grow thicker and stronger. In Indian culture shaving baby’s head is considered auspicious and is done in the guidance of a professional person. The rituals are plenty and the occasion is called Mundan ceremony. Usually it is a gathering of family and friends followed by a grand and elaborate meal.
Hair is a precious possession for every individual. Few people are fortunate and have good hair. They take pride in the quality and quantity of hair. Be it a myth or reality, most religions in India practice the ritual of shaving baby’s head prior to the baby being 1 year old.
The mundan is performed on a specific date at an auspicious time. The day and time is decided by a priest based on the time of the birth. Different religions follow different customs and they select pilgrim spots to visit for conducting this ritual. Entire family travel and conduct this ceremony.
Shaving baby’s head –Tradition
Elders and experts strongly advocate that shaving baby’s head is only a tradition and a custom. This practice has nothing to do with hair growth. Hair growth depend on the hair follicle and whatever is done above the scalp will not affect the hair growth. 
People believe that all impurities are cleaned with this ritual. It is a new beginning.However, when the hair is cut and new hair starts growing, the hair looks thick and healthy due to uniform growth
When to shave baby’s head
Even though some religions practice cutting hair on when the baby is nine days old. The only caution is that the baby’s head is soft and any turn or unpredictable moment can result in serious injuries. It’ll be better if the shaving is done when the head has hardened and the baby can be managed. The other caution is that the soft spothas to be gently dealt with under the supervision of elders and professionals.
Tips to follow while Shaving baby’s head
- Go thru’ the list of tips to be followed while shaving baby’s head. This will avoid any unforeseen accidents and worries.
- Preferably conduct the shaving of baby’s head in the day time. Baby is less cranky and there will be sufficient light too.
- Keep baby comfortable and for sure distracted with the items of his choice, colorful images , music of the baby’s liking.Understand how to soothe your crying baby.
- Use a baby soap to lather the head prior to the shaving process.
- Keep cleaning the razor using disinfectant diluted in warm water. Also keep rinsing the baby’s head too with warm water.
- Keep the baby engaged with conversation. Ensure baby is busy such that the professional person conducting the job can complete the tasks uninterrupted. Feed baby prior to starting the shaving job.
- After the shaving of head is done, give your child a good bath with lukewarm water so that all the hair fallen over the body gets washed off.
- Apply disinfectant and after that moisturizer on your baby’s head. This will prevent drying and itching of the scalp. In Indian tradition a mixture of sandalwood (chandan) and turmeric powder (haldi) is applied. Chandan gives cooling effect and turmeric is popular for its antiseptic properties.
- Ensure the barber’s tools for shaving baby’s head are all sterilized and in good condition. Applicable if you are visiting a holy place to perform the ceremony.
Shaving the baby’s head is not a bid deal but then you need to conduct this task safely and in the guidance of elders and professionals only. Further read: How should I treat the scaly flakes on my babies head?
How should I treat the scaly flakes on my babies head?
May 8, 2014 by admin
Filed under Baby Problems
For the last few days I have been observing a thick, oily, brown scaling on my babies scalp. These are flaky and when dry comes off like dandruff. This is a common concern of parents who are alarmed and worried of how these scaly flakes are going to affect the baby.
This condition is called Cradle cap. Doctors call it seborrheic dermatitis, and it’s very common in small babies. In older kids the problem is called dandruff.
Symptoms
Cradle cap shows up in the initial months and remain upto 9 months sometimes a year too. The duration varies from child to child and family history too.
Some babies get these scales just as a small patch, others have scales all over their heads. Sometimes, cradle cap can even occur on the eyebrows, eyelids, ears, crease of the nose, back of the neck, diaper area, or armpits.
You will be tempted to pick at the scaly patches on your baby’s head, but try not to. Picking at it can leave sore patches that could become infected.
Is cradle cap contagious?
Cradle cap is not contagious and it is not caused due to poor hygiene or allergies. Most of the time, it just goes away on its own.
Causes of Cradle cap?
The exact cause of cradle cap isn’t known, although some researchers believe it can be caused by an overproduction of skin oil (sebum) in the oil glands and hair follicles. A type of yeast (fungus) called malassezia can grow in the sebum along with bacteria, and this may be another factor in the development of cradle cap.
Also observed that this skin problem -Seborrhea often runs in families, meaning the conditions that lead to cradle cap can be passed from mother to baby before birth. Factors that contribute in development of cradle cap are weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent skin cleaning, lotions that contain alcohol, obesity, and other skin disorders
How to treat cradle cap?
Your baby will not be bothered by this skin condition. Itching happens if the spread of flakes is severe. Understand how to treat cradle cap.
Massage your baby’s scalp with coconut oil or almond oil such that the skin is moist. Leave it for 15 mins. Then clean the scalp with a soft brush to help loosen the scales and wash your baby’s scalp with mild shampoo.
Follow this routine daily and you will see the flakes decrease gradually.Once the scales are less the frequency of shampooing baby’s head can be changed to once a week. Cradle cap may disappear for months at a time and then suddenly reappear, you can control the re-occurrence by regular oiling and shampooing.
If your baby’s cradle cap starts to look red and swollen, take her to the doctor. Avoid self medication. Consult the doctor if the condition is becoming severe. this indicates that the area is infected. Your doctor can prescribe an antifungal cream or medicated shampoo, or a course of antibiotics.
There is nothing to worry. Follow doctors instructions and your baby will be free of the skin complaint.
Also read: Easy ways to treat baby eczema effectively
Feeding Ripe Mango will Protect your Baby from Summer heat
Mango is popularly known as the King of fruits. Mango is one of the exotic fruits in the world with several health benefits. Mangoes are easily digestible and the important health benefits from mangoes for babies include protection of eyesight, fights microbial infections, improvement in brain development and many more.
Can mangoes be fed to children?
This is a question young parents have these days whether mangoes can be served to babies. Yes, mango can be served to babies. Pediatricians also recommend introducing fruits such as mango, apple, avocado, banana, etc and vegetables such as carrot, peas, green beans which are pureed.
Why opt Mango fruit?
Mango is an exotic and seasoned fruit. Mangoes contain several health benefits that your baby needs for developing a strong body and mind.
Fruits such as mangoes contain high amount of vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. It would be an understatement to say that vitamins and minerals are essential for your baby. In fact, underestimating their role in baby’s growth can result in deficiencies later on.
Health benefits of Mango for babies
Easily digestible: Mango fruit puree is easily digestible, especially for infants. Feeding babies with mangoes is also advantageous because, mangoes contain enzymes and biochemicals such as esters, terpenes and aldehydes which promote digestion.
Boost eyesight: New born babies eyesight is not as much developed as adult humans. Sight efficiency develops during the course of babies growth in the subsequent months. During this time, good supply of vitamin A is needed for proper and quick development of eye sight. Ripe mango can be a very good choice because it is high in vitamin A.
Fights microbial infections: Eating mango fruit promotes epithelial function in the body and thereby the attack of microbes is reduced to a significant extent. The microbes that normally attack babies can causes common colds, rhinitis, sinusitis, etc.
Read: How to keep your Baby Healthy during Weather changes?
Strengthens immunity: Infants and children have a weak immune system and is in the developing stage. In this duration any food fed that promotes the immune function is a huge welcome. Mangoes strengthens immune system in your baby. The high carotene and beta-carotene content present in mangoes promotes the immune system and makes it stronger.
Enables brain development: Brain development is critical for babies as body development. By consuming mangoes Brain functioning improves for babies. Mangoes are rich in vitamin B-6 which helps in improved brain functioning. Apart from vitamin B-6, mangoes contain glutamine acid and it is known to improve memory and concentration.
Protection against sunstroke: Another key benefit of mangoes during summer is their protection against sunstroke and hot winds. Unripe mangoes can either be cooked in hot ashes or steam boiled and the pulp obtained can be made into a squash mixed with sugar and water. This juice taken during hot summers can protect against dehydration and sunstroke. This is fit to be given for toddlers who are up and running all day during summers.
Refer: Quick tips to make Healthy and Refreshing Green Mango Drink at home
Recipe For Mango puree
Wash mango in water and peel the skin. Cut the mango pulp and mash it thoroughly or grind in mixer for 1 to 2 mins until soft. Sieve thru’ strainer and feed your baby. Half cup will be sufficient.Serve with a baby spoon.
As your baby grows you can combine banana, milk ,yogurt, sweet potato, melons and bring in variety for your baby.
Further read: Recipes for baby food and Wheat flour porridge
Watch outs while feeding mangoes
Baby’s age: Make sure to feed mango puree to babies who are at least 6 months of age and those for whom solid or semi solid food has already started. Mango puree is easily digestible for infants.
Texture of mango fruit: The texture of the mango fruit is very important. The mashed mango puree must not contain any fibers which will be difficult for the baby to swallow. Filter the mango puree thoroughly.
Unripe mango-do not feed: Unripe mango is not to be fed to infants. Unripe mango could be sour and babies might dislike it and may poop all that had been fed earlier. Unripe mangoes can be indigestible to many infants.
Watch out for allergies: Mango being a tropical fruit might be allergic to few people. Consult the pediatrician and take advice if there is history of food allergies in your family.
Mango is a seasonal fruit. Ensure your family gets the maximum benefit by eating mango in right quantities. Feeding Ripe Mango will Protect your Baby from Summer heat. Your baby’s gonna love the mango puree that is great for growth and brain development.
Leave your opinion and views in the comments section.
Tips to Prevent Prickly Heat rash for your baby
April 9, 2014 by admin
Filed under Baby Problems
What is a prickly heat rash?
If you observe small red rashes on your baby’s neck, under his arms, or near the edges of his diaper,nappy or underwear, it is probably a heat rash. Do not panic. Prickly heat rash is also known as Milaria that occurs in hot and humid weather.
The rashes usually in groups appears in the folds of the skin and in areas where the cloth sticks to the body, such as the upper chest, neck, groin and armpits. If you put a cap for your child, the head also gets affected with rashes.
Is prickly heat a serious health problem?
No, appearance of prickly heat on your baby’s body is only an indication that the baby is affected by the heat and environment. Baby feels itchy and is restless. You need to take steps to cool down the room, wear appropriate clothing and make baby comfortable.
If you are not alert baby can develop a serious condition such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Baby will have to be shifted to a hospital for further recovery.
Causes of prickly heat
When it’s hot and humid outside, your child sweats to cool down. A prickly heat rash develops when baby sweats so much that his skin pores are blocked and sweat can’t get out. Babies and young children are particularly prone to heat rash because their sweat glands are not fully developed.
Your baby can get too hot if you overdress him, even if he just a newborn. Tight or heavy clothing can trap the sweat as well, contributing to the irritation.
Ghee, oils and lotions used for your baby’s massage also tend to clog the pores of his skin. Ensure you give a good bath after an oil massage session. This will wash off any residual oils and allow your baby’s skin to breathe.
Tips to prevent Prickly heat rash for your baby
Common observation is that the prickly heat rashes will clear up in a few days time unless the rash gets infected. Meanwhile, here are a few things you can do to relieve your child’s itching and discomfort:
- Keep your baby cool: Keep your baby in a cool airy room or a shady spot when outdoors. If your baby is walking already, encourage him to slow down from time to time to keep his sweating in check. Make sure your baby gets enough to drink to replace all the fluids he is losing through sweat.If you must step out and about in the summer heat, make sure your baby’s head is covered. Recommended to stay indoors during the peak heat hours. The hot summer winds can be dangerous and weaken your baby due to dehydration.It is safe to use ceiling fan, air cooler or air conditioner in the room where the baby is placed. Care should be taken to see that the baby is not getting direct blow of air. Even newborns need to be kept cool because they are not very good at regulating their own temperature yet. The temperature of AC should be set to avoid over cooling and baby catching a cold. The changes in temperature from one room to the other can also be difficult on a baby.
- Avoid carrying the baby all the time: Holding your baby too often means in addition to the external heat he is contact with your body temperature. Teach and Practice the baby sleep with the cradle. When baby is awake let him go around on his own on a cotton mat. He will remain cool when left alone. Feeding a baby may end up getting sweaty all over therefore ensure there is air around. Minimize baby’s cloths too.
- Dress your baby appropriately: Select lightweight cotton clothes for your baby. Avoid synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, as they trap heat. Minimize clothing if possible at peak hours within the house. Baby moving around with a nappy or diaper is fine.
The mother also needs to wear light colored clothes, avoid wearing clothes with embroidery, mirror work, sequin work or lurex threads as these may scratch your child’s already irritated skin when you carry or breastfeed him. Also, use simple cotton bed linen. Heavy thread-work bedcovers or bed sheets may irritate your child’s skin. Use a soft cotton sheet to cover your baby while he sleeps.
- Keep his skin cool. Cool the affected areas directly using cold, wet wash cloths, or give your baby a tepid (luke warm) bath or shower. Let the air dry his skin as much as possible rather than using towels; a little more nude time can help heal the rash.
- Trim baby’s nails : Your child may begin to pick his skin or scratch himself vigorously, when the prickly heat rash starts itching. Trim his nails to prevent any injury or infection
- Use calamine lotion. If your baby is irritable and cries when you touch his skin, apply calamine lotion liberally (but not near the eyes).
Ointments and other lotions are best avoided as they can make the rash worse by trapping moisture in the skin. Home remedies are also ideal for the prickly heat rash in a baby. Consult your pediatrician prior to making any changes in the medicated prickly heat powder or introducing an ayurvedic preparation
Meet the doctor if your baby has high temperature. The doctor may prescribe medication to ease the itching and help baby sleep on time. Be alert and keep an eye on the baby’s overall health and temperature.
Further reading: The importance of setting a baby’s routine
Optional Vaccines for Infants in India
Vaccines are very critical during the growth of a child. You need to keep the child healthy free from infections. Become familiar with the importance of vaccination for a baby and the schedule during the growth in the previous article. Few are mandatory requirements for a baby in India and there are optional vaccinations recommended.
As a young mother understand the essentials for your baby. Consult with the doctor and take the necessary action.You may be worried to even visualize your baby going thru’ the pain of so many injections. With a little pain and healing your baby is going to enjoy a healthy tomorrow. In additional to the mandatory ones there are optional vaccines that has become a necessity in today’s world.
There are different diseases which can be deadly in children like polio, TB, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Hepatitis B. Giving vaccines for various Vaccines are given to babies to protect them and create acquired immunity to the disease. As is said Prevention is better than cure. Administer the vaccines in advance and prevent the babies from deadly diseases.
Following are the list of vaccines to be administered for your child. Make a note of all vaccines completed in your tracking card.Usually the peadiatrician or consulting doctor will give a card which has the vaccination schedule and the purposes, weight chart ,first aid and other simple remedies to be done at home.
At Birth Time:
1. Mandatory BCG (Bacillus Calmette Guerin)
Prevents: Tuberculosis
Important: Can cause slight swelling at the site of the injection, do not apply any medicine to the swollen area.
2. Mandatory OPV vaccine(Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
3. Mandatory Hepatitis B
Prevents: Liver infection caused by Hepatitis B virus
Important: Essential within 12 hours of birth to prevent transmission from mother.
4. Optional HPV(Human Papila Virus)
Prevents: Cervical cancer and other Genital cancers.
Important: Only for girls
Read: How to handle the new born baby
At 6 weeks (1.5 months old):
1. Mandatory DPT (Diphtheria, Pertrussis and Tetanus)
Prevents: Diphtheria(Upper respiratory illness), Pertrussis(whooping cough) and Tetanus
Important: There may be slight fever associated with pain and swelling at the injection site.
2. Mandatory OPV vaccine (Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
3. Mandatory Hepatitis B
Prevents: Liver infection caused by Hepatitis B virus
Important: The first and second dose of this medicine offer complete protection.
4. Optional HiB (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)
Prevents: Menagitis, which affects membranes surrounding the brain and the Spinal cord.
Important: There may be slight redness, swelling or pain at the site of the injection.
5. Optional Pneumococcal
Prevents: Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcous Pneumonia Bacteria
Important: Prevenar was the first vaccine against Pneumococcal disease in India.
At 10 weeks (2.5 months old):
1.Mandatory DPT (Diphtheria, Pertrussis and Tetanus)
Prevents: Diphtheria(Upper respiratory illness), Pertrussis(whooping cough) and Tetanus
Important: There may be slight fever associated with pain and swelling at the injection site.
2. Mandatory OPV vaccine (Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
3. Mandatory Hepatitis B
Prevents: Liver infection caused by Hepatitis B virus
Important: The first and second dose of this medicine offer complete protection.
4. Optional HiB (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)
Prevents: Meningitis, which affects membranes surrounding the brain and the Spinal cord.
Important: There may be slight redness, swelling or pain at the site of the injection.
5. Optional Pneumococcal
Prevents: Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcous Pneumonia Bacteria
Important: Prevenar was the first vaccine against Pneumococcal disease in India.
6. Optional IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: It eliminates the small risk of developing polio after receiving the live Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV).
At 14 weeks (3.5 months old):
1.Mandatory DPT (Diphtheria, Pertrussis and Tetanus)
Prevents: Diphtheria(Upper respiratory illness), Pertrussis(whooping cough) and Tetanus
Important: There may be slight fever associated with pain and swelling at the injection site.
2. Mandatory OPV vaccine (Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
3. Optional Pneumococcal
Prevents: Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcous Pneumonia Bacteria
Important: Prevenar was the first vaccine against Pneumococcal disease in India.
4. Optional HiB (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B) / Meningitis vaccine MCV4 and MPSV4
Prevents: Meningitis, which affects membranes surrounding the brain and the Spinal cord.
Important: There may be slight redness, swelling or pain at the site of the injection.
5. Optional IPV(Inactivated Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given in the form of injection.
At 6 months old:
1. Mandatory Hepatitis B
Prevents: Liver infection caused by Hepatitis B virus
Important: The first and second dose of this medicine offer complete protection.
Note: Some babies might get 4 doses, for example, if a combination vaccine containing hepatitis B is used. (This is a single shot containing several vaccines.) The extra dose is not harmful.
• Anyone through 18 years of age who didn’t get the vaccine when they were younger should also be vaccinated.
2.Optional Rotavirus
Prevents: Rotavirus infection which causes severe Diarrhoea among infants.
Important: First dose is given before the completion of 6 months and the second dose after a gap of 1 month.
3.Optional Influenza
Prevents: Influenza infection which causes infection of the respiratory system.
Important: The most common vaccine is Trivalent Influenza Vaccine ( TIV).
At 9 months old:
1. Mandatory Measles
Prevents: Measles, which causes infection of the respiratory system.
Important: Highly contagious disease. Hence it is very important to get the vaccination done on time.
At 12 months old (1 year) :
1. Mandatory Varicella
Prevents: Chicken pox.
Important: Varicella is the primary vaccine for protection against Chicken pox.
At 15 months (1.3 years old):
1. Mandatory MMR
Prevents: Measles, Mumps, Rubella
Important: There may be slight fever, joint pain or stiffness after the vaccination.
2. Optional Pneumococcal Booster
Prevents: Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcous Pneumonia Bacteria
Important: Prevenar was the first vaccine against Pneumococcal disease in India.
3. Optional IPV(Inactivated Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given in the form of injection.
At 18 months (1 .6 years old):
1.Mandatory OPV vaccine(Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
2. Mandatory DPT Booster(Diphtheria, Pertrussis and Tetanus)
Prevents: Diphtheria(Upper respiratory illness), Pertrussis(whooping cough) and Tetanus
Important: There may be slight fever associated with pain and swelling at the injection site.
3. Mandatory Hepatitis A
Prevents: Liver infection caused by HAV (Hepatitis A Virus)
Important: Since Hepatitis A is common in young Indian children, it is advisable to get this vaccination done.
4. Optional HiB Booster (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)
Prevents: Meningitis, which affects membranes surrounding the brain and the Spinal cord.
Important: There may be slight redness, swelling or pain at the site of the injection.
At 2 years old:
1.Mandatory Typhoid
Prevents: Typhoid, a fever caused by Typhoid bacillus.
Important: There are 2 types of Typhoid vaccines: Inactivated vaccine (shot) and Weakened vaccine.
2. Mandatory Hepatitis A
Prevents: Liver infection caused by HAV (Hepatitis A Virus)
Important: Since Hepatitis A is common in young Indian children, it is advisable to get this vaccination done.
At 4 years old:
1. Mandatory MMR
Prevents: Measles, Mumps, Rubella
Important: There may be slight fever, joint pain or stiffness after the vaccination.
At 5 years old:
1. Mandatory OPV Booster(Oral Polio Vaccine)
Prevents: Poliomyelitis (Polio) which damages nervous system, causes muscle weakness or paralysis.
Important: Given FREE in government centres upto the age of 5 years on Pulse Polio Immunization day
2. Mandatory DPT Booster(Diphtheria, Pertrussis and Tetanus)
Prevents: Diphtheria(Upper respiratory illness), Pertrussis(whooping cough) and Tetanus
Important: There may be slight fever associated with pain and swelling at the injection site.
Consult the doctor on a regular basis to understand any updations in the vaccination schedule. Keep your little one free from infections and let her enjoy a healthy life for a healthy tomorrow.
Vaccines for your Baby – Immunization Schedule
A lot of emphasis is mentioned by elders in administering vaccines for your growing baby. A new born baby has to follow the immunization schedule to remain healthy and free from infections. When the mother and child is being discharged from the hospital after birth, the baby’s doctor will give a briefing of the forthcoming immunization schedule and when to visit the hospital.
You may be worried to even visualize your baby going thru’ the pain of so many injection. The doctor responsible will hand over a tracking card which contains the proposed immunization schedule for reference and future action. Remember these are mandatory vaccines to keep sickness at bay. Understand which are the mandatory vaccines and how important the vaccines are for your baby.
Natural immunity for a baby
God has gifted every human with miracle fighters called antibodies which recognize anything that is ‘foreign’ to our body and destroy it. The greatest advantage is that the immunity system identifies these enemies that come back to attack and destroys them .In this way immunity is developed to the particular disease. The baby’s immunity is further improved by the mother’s breast milk in the first 4 to 6 months.
Then why to give vaccines for the baby?
There are different diseases which can be deadly in children like polio, TB, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Hepatitis B. Vaccines are given to babies to protect them and create acquired immunity to the disease. As is said Prevention is better than cure. Administer the vaccines in advance and prevent the babies from deadly diseases.
What is the immunization schedule and for what diseases?
Immunizations against common childhood diseases has been an integral component of mother and child health services in India since the adoption of the primary health care approach being reinforced by the Declaration of health Policy. Vaccines recommended by the Government and available in Government hospitals at reduced costs include:
BCG vaccine (mandatory) – Given as an intradermal injection soon after birth; prevents TB (Tuberculosis). Can cause slight swelling at the site of the injection, do not apply any medicine to the site. BCG : Bacillus Calmette Guerin
OPV vaccine (mandatory) – Given orally as several doses till the age of five, this prevents polio. Poliomyelitis is a disease which affects the nerves causing muscle weakness and paralysis. It is given free of cost to all children below five years of age under the Pulse Polio program. OPV: Oral Polio Vaccine
DPT vaccine (mandatory) – Given as an intradermal injection, it prevents three diseases Diphtheria, Pertrusis and Tetanus.
a. Diphtheria is an infection which starts with a ‘sore throat’ but can rapidly lead to formation of toxins (poisons) causing life-threatening complications.
b. Pertrusis (whooping cough) affects the lungs in children below 15 months of age. Starting with cold and cough, it progresses to episodes of coughs with a ‘whoop’. Complications include pneumonia, brain damage and death.
c. Tetanus starts when a wound is infected with bacteria found in soil, it affects the body’s muscles and nerves. The toxin produced by the bacteria causes muscle spasms, interferes with nerves and can be fatal.
Measles vaccine (mandatory) – The vaccine is given subcutaneously (just below the skin) as the baby completes nine months. A very contagious viral infection, measles starts as cold and cough with rashes progressing from the hairline downwards. It can progress to diarrhoea, pneumonia, infection of the brain leading to death, if untreated.
The immunization schedule as per the Universal Immunization Programme in India:
MMR vaccine (mandatory) – The vaccine is given as the baby completes 15 months. It prevents Measles, Mumps and Rubella. There may be slight fever, joint pain or stiffness after the vaccination.
Note: MMR vaccine (mandatory) – The vaccine is given as the baby completes 4 years.
DPT Booster (mandatory) – The vaccine is given as the baby completes 18 months, it prevents three diseases Diphtheria ( upper respiratory illness), Pertrusis and Tetanus. There may be mild fever, pain & swelling at the injection site.
Typhoid (mandatory) – The vaccine is given as the baby completes 2 years, it prevents Typhoid, a fever caused by Typhoid bacillus.
DPT Booster (mandatory) – The vaccine is given as the baby completes 5 years, it prevents three diseases Diphtheria ( upper respiratory illness), Pertrusis and Tetanus. There may be mild fever, pain & swelling at the injection site.
Remember to complete vaccines on time and keep the nation free of diseases and the future generations in safe hands.
Role of Suppositories for Babies
When babies are sick and running high temperature, the parents are worried and sometimes will not be in a position to respond. The babies are unable to express their discomfort, they are restless and keep crying. When the babies are small only a few months old , they will not be able to take medicines orally. In this situation suppositories for babies are the best option. Suppositories for babies are safe and effective too.
Types of suppositories:
Suppositories are often linked to constipation and hard stools. Two types of suppositories are available in the market, glycerine suppository for easing out constipation problems and the second one is paracetamol suppository which is vital to bring down high fever too. Suppository is one of the most effective and safe means to give medication to babies.
- Glycerine Suppository:
Glycerine suppository is used as a laxative to help babies suffering with constipation. Glycerin suppository is a small missile shaped capsule which is inserted inside the babies rectum. This is recommended when the baby has not passed stool for more than 4 to 5 days, baby is suffering with abdominal pain and the stools are dark colored and solid hard. At times there can be a cut to the anal lining due to tear. Consult a doctor before situation becomes worse. Glycerin suppository is administered for babies that are few weeks old too. It is safe and effective.
Glycerin suppositories are available at all pharmacy stores. You need to insert the suppository just half-inch inside the babies rectum. It behaves like a hyper-osmotic laxative and irritates the inner lining of the intestine. This causes an excess flow of water in the intestine which makes the stool soft and initiates bowel movement within few minutes. The pediatrician may also advise to cut the capsule into small pieces, follow doctors instructions. Glycerine suppository relieves severe constipation problems in babies.
- Paracetamol Suppository:
Paracetamol suppository is used to bring down fever in babies. Paracetamol suppository is found with different names in the market. Although the suppositories are available for over the counter purchase, but it is recommended that you consult the doctor to understand the correct dosage corresponding to the age of the baby.
Paracetamol suppositories comes under the category of pain killers. Paracetamol suppository is used to cure fever and relieve pain for the baby. It is given to babies less than a year old for whom oral medication is difficult to induce. When you insert paracetamol suppository inside the rectum of your baby it is absorbed by the intestine which further mixes it with the blood and results in a quick relief. The number of suppository depends on the baby’s age and weight. Avoid introducing suppository for a baby less than 3 months old, you need to consult the doctor. Inform the doctor of any other medical ailments the baby has and any medication the baby is taking. This will help the doctor arrive at the right solution and dosage.
Paracetamol suppository is recommended for babies having seizures with high temperature. The introduction of suppository will bring down the body temperature immediately.
How to administer Suppository to Babies?
You may be worried on how to dispense the long capsule for the baby. The suppository can be cut and inserted, do follow the doctors instructions. The baby will not be hurt with the suppository inserted as they are very small. As soon as the suppository is inserted, they dissolve within few seconds and start working.
Instructions to be followed :
- If the suppository is too soft to insert, then place it inside the fridge for 15 minutes or run cold water over the packet of suppository.
- Wash your hands nicely with the soap.
- Make your baby lie down on a flat bed / surface.
- Take the suppository from the packet and cut them into pieces according to the dose suggested by your doctor.
- Wear your gloves and insert approximately half-inch of the suppository gently inside the rectum of the baby.
- Keep your fingers inside for few minutes and then take your finger out.
- Let your baby lie down for few minutes and by that time discard the gloves and wash your hand properly.
You will be able to see the instant action. Be ready for the bowel movement in case of glycerin suppositories. Keep cleaning cloth and accessories ready as there will be a huge pooh. You will also see the dip in temperature and relief in case of paracetamol suppository.
Possible Side Effects of Suppository
There are side effects of suppositories administered in babies. This is observed in babies who are prone to constipation issues. Baby is not trying the natural urge for stools. The baby gets accustomed to inserting the suppository and the natural drive for poop is nullified. The child may cry after the pop out because of the discomfort, inflammation and burning sensation in the rectum. It may result in diarrhea for sometime or may result in dehydration because of the excess flow of water.
Common side effect is redness near the rectum. Rare side effect is fever, ulcer in mouth, liver problems and bleeding.
To avoid such side effects, it is advised to consult the doctor before giving any suppositories. As side effects are very rare they may or may not be observed.
Storage guidelines:
All the suppository should be stored in a cool and dry place and away from direct sunlight.
To conclude it is always better to get relief from constipation naturally. Include lots of water in your baby’s diet and avoid giving him food which can cause constipation. For instant relief you can definitely opt suppositories. But always target on long term solutions. If you know of any other tips on suppositories, do mention in comments.
Taking Care of a Premature Baby
Premature babies are defined as those born between twenty four and thirty seven weeks of gestation. An average Indian baby weighs about 2.8 kgs when born at full term. According to the World Health Organization, any baby who weighs less than 2.5 kgs is termed as a “low birth weight” baby, irrespective of when the baby is born during a pregnancy. In general babies, who weigh less than 2 kgs, need specialized neonatal care for the initial few weeks after birth, until they are much stronger and ready to go home.
The chances of survival for a baby born before twenty four weeks of pregnancy are narrow. Premature babies are very delicate and needs to be handled with lots of care and alertness. It is observed that generally the premature babies are vulnerable to external climatic changes too and due to low resistance are prone to illnesses quickly. That is the reason premature babies are kept away from visitors. These extra precautions will improve the existing health condition of the baby.
Premature babies are transferred to intensive care unit immediately after birth. They are placed in incubators as they require round the clock nursing support. The premature babies are tiny, fragile and very difficult to handle in the initial days. Only nursing staff and experienced people should administer the baby. The premature babies are fed intravenously and at times put on respirator to aid breathing in certain situations.
Close monitoring is required for key parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and pulse. Premature babies are retained in the incubator till the time the consulting doctor confirms that the babies health is stable and can be taken home. Even after premature baby is discharged from the hospital, periodical checks has to be conducted to ensure the baby is progressing well and you do not come across surprises in ignorance.
Bringing a premature baby home after several weeks in the hospital is very exciting yet stressful as you need to keep monitoring round the clock. Relatives, close friends and neighbors will be anxious to see the baby. Control should be maintained over the visitors as baby is prone to viral infections with exposure. Prevent insect bite, provide mosquito net.
Premature babies develop for two to four months outside the womb. During this period , they are exposed to different types of stimuli such as light, noises, touch and pain. They are comfortable when wrapped in blanket and the room is kept warm. A quieter environment with dim lights is recommended such that the baby stays calm. Parents and caretakers need to take extra care to nurture the baby. Start breast feeding based on availability.If you are opting for formula milk then follow all precautions while preparing feed.
Crying in premature babies:
Crying is a common phenomena in babies and a way of communication with those around them. Some infants cry more than the other babies. Crying may indicate several reasons- baby is hungry, seek attention , need a diaper change, some sort of an irritation or displeasure with the environment.
Premature babies are more fussy and cry often. Babies continue to cry in spite of all basic needs addressed. If babies are kept in the Intensive neonatal unit they will take time to adjust to the new environment. Usually baby is separated from the new mom who is recovering after the delivery and probably in another ward of the hospital to support feeds for the baby.
Unusual crying in premature babies:
By the time the baby is 3 to 4 weeks, the parents and elders taking care of the baby will be able to identify the cause of the cry. In case you sense that the baby is crying for more than the usual time is not stopping to cry with all the efforts to soothe the baby you need to consult a pediatrician and take medical advice. Unusual behavior and crying pattern should be mentioned to the doctor which will aid in diagnosis.
Prior to taking medical advice rule out the possibility of the baby being hungry, Baby diaper is clean and dry, no signs or symptoms of pain in the ear, check for body temperature, redness on the body due to insect bite. Pacify and soothe the premature baby from crying by holding the baby close to the body and talking to the baby in soft tones. If the baby has a liking to music, distract the baby with light music or shift the babies attention with baby toys and favorite posters. Sing songs that the baby enjoys usually and try to put the baby to sleep. Baby may cry if it feels cold too. Wrap the baby with clothes that provide warmth if the external weather is cold, baby will feel comfortable in warm clothes.
Read: How to handle the New Born Baby
Monitoring baby’s progress
Round the clock monitoring has to happen. Therefore if you are hiring baby sitter for caring the baby, ensure the help is an experienced one. Create awareness and be alert. The mother will be also on medication post delivery. Share responsibilities and create a happy environment for the baby.
Closely watch out during seasonal transition and be able to interpret the symptoms. Premature babies are more fussy when compared to the full term babies born at the normal stage of pregnancy. The initial weeks are very challenging and gradually your baby will outgrow this phase in no time.
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