February 2025, article by Dr. Cristina Mascolo, pediatrician at Aventino Medical Group
With the arrival of the colder seasons, protecting children from seasonal illnesses becomes one of the main concerns for parents. Colds, flu syndromes, and respiratory infections are inevitable during the winter months, but there are many strategies that can help reduce the risk and keep our children healthy.
As a pediatrician at Aventino Medical Group, I am often asked about this topic, providing practical and personalized advice to the families who visit our center.
Located in the heart of Rome, our polyclinic stands out not only for its high level of professionalism but also for its ability to welcome international patients. We speak Italian and English, and many of us also know French, Spanish, or German, offering support both to local families and to tourists and expats looking for a medical reference point in the capital.
1. Avoid overcrowded places and excessive temperature changes
One of the most important aspects is to be cautious about very crowded indoor places, such as shopping malls, where it is more likely to encounter people carrying viruses.
On the other hand, it is advisable to adopt a healthy lifestyle, allowing children to go for walks and play in the park even in low temperatures, as long as they are properly dressed.
In Rome, winter days can be mild, but the evenings can be quite cold, so it is best to dress children in layers to prevent both cold exposure and overheating.
2. Promote a balanced diet
A healthy diet is essential. Ensuring that children consume seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, kiwis, broccoli, and carrots, is crucial for providing an adequate supply of vitamins, especially vitamin C.
Additionally, vitamin D supplementation is fundamental in our latitudes, not only for stronger bones but also for its immune-modulating role.
A balanced diet not only helps prevent infections but also promotes faster recovery in case of illness.
3. Administer recommended vaccines
Vaccination is one of the most effective tools for protecting children from infectious diseases, such as seasonal flu.
At our center, I work with a team of qualified pediatricians, including:
- Dr. Paola Groff
- Dr. Blegina Shashaj
- Dr. Catherine Stainier
- Prof. Guido Castelli Gattinara
We ensure the safe administration of vaccines and provide comprehensive consultations for families. Vaccination not only protects young children but also helps reduce the spread of diseases in the community.
4. Managing persistent respiratory conditions
Some seasonal illnesses, such as persistent cough, nasal congestion with non-secretory conjunctivitis, or atopic dermatitis, may indicate an underlying allergy.
In such cases, it is essential to consult an allergist to perform specific tests (such as prick tests) and initiate appropriate treatment.
For more information on available services, visit our Allergology section.
5. Monitor ENT (ear, nose, and throat) issues
Persistent mucus buildup can lead to complications, such as catarrhal otitis, which may cause pain and temporary hearing loss.
These cases require an accurate diagnosis by an ENT specialist, who can recommend specific treatments for a quick resolution.
For further details, you can visit our Otorhinolaryngology section.
6. Frequent handwashing
Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective strategies to prevent infections.
We teach children to wash their hands with soap and water, especially:
- Before meals.
- After playing outside or in public places.
Alternatively, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be a good option when soap and water are not available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the best ways to prevent seasonal illnesses in children?
Prevention involves a combination of daily habits: avoiding crowded places, ensuring a balanced diet rich in vitamins, administering recommended vaccines, and teaching children proper hand hygiene. Dressing them in layers also helps protect them from sudden temperature changes.
2. Is it beneficial to take children outside during winter?
Yes, allowing children to play outdoors, even in cold months, helps strengthen their immune system. The key is to dress them appropriately and ensure they do not sweat excessively, which can lead to temperature fluctuations.
3. How can I tell if a persistent cough is due to an allergy?
If the cough is accompanied by chronic nasal congestion, non-secretory conjunctivitis, or atopic dermatitis, it could be an allergic reaction. In such cases, it is advisable to see an allergist for specific tests, such as prick tests, to determine the most suitable treatment.
4. When should I consult an otolaryngologist?
If a child has persistent mucus buildup causing ear pain or hearing difficulties, they may have catarrhal otitis. A consultation with an otolaryngologist can help diagnose the problem and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Protecting children from seasonal illnesses requires a proactive approach based on prevention, proper nutrition, and effective infection management. Simple measures such as hand washing, appropriate clothing, and vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of illnesses and improve children’s overall health.For more information on pediatric disease prevention, allergies, or ENT conditions, visit our sections on Allergy, Pediatrics, and Otolaryngology on our website.