Build Immunity In Stages For Children Who Often Fall sick - Pediatrician 

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- Young children often experience coughs, rashes or mild fevers that disrupt their daily routines and schooling, causing parents to be overwhelmed with worry and work-related issues because they have to take care of their children who are not well.

Pediatrician and Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist at Sunway Medical Centre, Bandar Sunway Dr Ch’ng Tong Wei said the fact is that children, especially those who have just entered preschool, often fall ill easily, between eight and 12 times a year, due to their weak immune systems.

“Their immune system is like a blank sheet of paper. Over time, their immunity gets stronger because each infection helps in the production of antibodies,” she said in a statement issued by Sunway Medical Centre here today.

According to Dr Ch’ng, however, exposure to various infections at an early age can help mature the immune system, causing older children and adults to be less susceptible to diseases.

She said that in Malaysia's tropical climate, among the common infections among children are influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and adenovirus infections, HFMD, gastroenteritis, dengue, as well as diseases such as chickenpox and measles, especially when vaccination rates are low.

However, she said most infections among healthy children are mild and will heal on their own (self-limiting).

However, at the same time, she advised parents to be more sensitive to warning signs such as fever lasting more than three days, difficulty breathing, unusual drowsiness, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, and a rash that spreads quickly, as it may indicate something more serious.

Commenting on immune disorders, Dr Ch'ng said that the problem is rare, but can cause more severe or prolonged infections.

“Children with immunodeficiency often fall ill and suffer from severe infections. They may require frequent hospitalisation or suffer from recurrent viral or fungal infections. Poor growth or weight gain can also be a sign,” she said.

She said that usually a child’s ability to fight off infections is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle practices and preventive measures, but some groups are naturally more prone to illness due to conditions such as asthma, eczema or allergies

“Parents can strengthen their immunity through healthy practices such as getting enough sleep, regular exercise and playing outside, a balanced diet low in sugar, adequate fruit and vegetable intake, vitamin D supplements and maintaining hand hygiene.

“There is no need to take expensive supplements. Most children can get what they need from a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and a healthy routine,” she said.

At the same time, healthcare including hygiene practices are also important to ensure children stay healthy and practices such as washing hands, wearing face masks, and avoiding crowded places can reduce infections as was done during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said that vaccination is still one of the most effective methods and routine vaccines have been proven to drastically reduce diseases such as measles and pertussis, while additional vaccines (rotavirus, hepatitis A, chickenpox) offer additional protection.

Dr Ch’ng also reminded parents to ensure regular health check-ups are carried out to monitor children’s growth and development.

“Don’t wait for your child to be sick to make an appointment with the doctor. Growth monitoring, vaccinations, and developmental screenings help ensure children achieve healthy growth, physical goals, and overall well-being,” she said.

-- BERNAMA