The summer season brings with it special problems, especially in protecting newborns and young children from the harmful effects of extreme heat. There is a significant risk of sunburn, dehydration and heat stroke.
Here are some helpful tips to protect babies and toddlers during the hot summer months.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water, especially in the summer. Make sure babies get enough water by giving them regular formula or breast milk. Even if older children don't seem thirsty, give them plenty of water to drink throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.
Wear appropriate clothing
Babies and toddlers should wear lightweight clothing made from breathable materials such as cotton. Choose light shades that reflect sunlight rather than absorb it. Wide-brimmed hats can provide additional protection for their sensitive eyes and skin.
Seek shade
If you are outside, try to find shade, especially during the hottest times of the day, which is usually the case between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Use shade sails, canopies of umbrellas so children can play in the shade. Remember that newborns should not be exposed to direct sunlight until they are six months old.
Use sunscreen
Use baby sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your baby's skin from harmful UV rays. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers UVA and UVB protection. Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including hands, neck, ears and face. Reapply every few hours or more often if you sweat or swim.
Keep cool indoors
It is recommended to stay indoors in a cool, air-conditioned room, especially on hot days. Never leave children or babies alone in a parked car or vehicle. Even with the windows open, the temperature in a parked car can rise quickly and reach lethal levels within minutes. Heatstroke is a potentially life-threatening emergency that can happen very quickly in such conditions.
Watch for signs of heat illness
Feeling pale from heat, including excessive sweating or flushed skin, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, fast heart rate, and confusion. If you suspect your child has heat illness, move them to a cooler environment, offer fluids, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist.
Remember, safeguarding infants and young children from the scorching temperatures of summer is paramount to their health and well-being. By following these tips we can ensure their safety while enjoying the sunshine, getting enough vitamin D is crucial for infants and children as it helps in the development of strong bones and teeth, supports immune function, and promotes overall growth. Sun exposure is one of the primary ways our bodies produce vitamin D naturally.
(Author: Dr V Mohan Ram, Senior Consultant, Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Specialist in Pediatric Critical care)
