Everything parents need to know

Autumn has arrived, schools have started, we are slowly entering winter and it brings... viruses! Several children will start attending nursery school at the age of 3-4 years or younger. Unsurprisingly, at this age, young children's immune systems have not had time to fully and strongly develop. As a result, they are vulnerable to the various diseases, infections and viruses that occur in the cramped and relatively small space of the nursery. The main infections that can affect very young children are mainly in the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.

The Main cause for that is the frequency with which young children put their hands in their mouths and noses.

The cycle of such an iosis can last even 2 or 3 weeks and its symptoms can be of great concern to parents. This is normal as the defense of the little ones is not yet 'ready' but clinical cases and studies show that infants can cope normally provided there is no other more serious illness.

Should parents be afraid?

Practically parents should not be afraid but should be careful and thorough especially if they notice symptoms or learn about cases of viral infections at the nursery where their baby is attending.

Indicatively they should:

• Check the baby's condition with your pediatrician
• Vaccinate the baby before the age of 5 against viral diseases such as influenza
• Take catching the disease as a natural and frequent process as this is how our body builds up antibodies
• Provide as much nutrition as possible to boost their defenses
• Ensure adequate rest and sleep
• Train the child from an early age in basic hygiene rules