Even though cold temperatures do not directly cause illness they can create conditions that facilitate the transmission of viruses and bacteria. That is why winter months bring specific health risk for children. At CIFC Health Pediatrics we aim to help parents protect their children from seasonal illness while ensuring they enjoy the winter safely.
Children are especially vulnerable in winter. Their immune systems are still developing, the dry indoor air from heating systems can make it easier for germs to enter the body, and reduced sunlight in winter lowers vitamin D production which can lower immunity in children. This is in addition to the extended time spent indoors in close proximity to other people. Some of our patients may also have chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, seizure disorder, or an autoimmune disease which can cause winter illnesses to be more severe, making precautions to keep them healthy especially important.
The most basic step parents can take is to ensure children and adolescents are up to date with their vaccines to reduce transmission and complications from flu, RSV, and COVID. Beyond that, try to avoid contact with people who are recently ill with fever or respiratory infection - even if your child has been vaccinated.
- Ensure that children have enough maintenance medication and request refills on time to avoid running out during the winter.
- Know what symptoms warrant calling the clinic or seeking emergency care - For example; extreme weakness, high fever, or any fever in infants younger than 3 months of age, difficulty breathing, or repeated vomiting
Trust your parental instincts. If something seems wrong or you're concerned about your child's symptoms, it's always better to seek professional medical advice
Create an indoor environment free from irritants like smoke, dust and mold.
- Air out living spaces regularly and use vents and fans when cooking
- Avoid products like air freshener, plug-ins, or scented candles inside the home
- Consider using an air purifier with HEPA filtration and regularly change the filters to maintain good air quality
- Use humidifiers to add moisture to the air and reduce air transmission of viruses
Amira Mohamed-Ahmed, MD
Chief of Pediatrics, CIFC Health