Children are more at risk of contracting infectious diseases because their immune systems are not yet perfect. In fact, now some of the germs in the environment around us are getting stronger(resistant) and difficult to treat. However, parents need not worry too much about letting their children play outside. Because there are many preventive ways that can be done as extra protection for children. This effort can be started fromsimple things like washing hands and bathing regularly with soap.
Disease germs are so small that they cannot be seen by the human eye without assistance. This makes it easy for germs to enter the body and cause disease without realizing it. There are four types of germs that are commonly encountered, namely viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoa.
Here are some healthy habits that are practical and easy to do, so that children avoid harmful germs:
- Get used to washing hands and bathing regularly
The surface of the child's body cannot be separated from the presence of bacteria, for example Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria can cause various diseases in children, such as skin infections and respiratory infections. There is one type of harmful bacteria, namely MRSA (MRSA).Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). This type is resistant to antibiotics commonly used, so it is more difficult to treat because it requires a stronger type of antibiotic. MRSA can cause more serious problems, such as pneumonia (pneumonia) and bone infections. Staphylococcus bacteria, including MRSA, can easily be transferred through dirty children's hands.
Keeping their skin clean is an important step to avoid getting sick or spreading bacteria. Hand washing is arguably the simplest and most effective way to avoid germs. This is because hands are one of the parts of the body that are most exposed to germs and spread germs to other body parts, such as the mouth and eyes. If children can keep their hands clean, it will reduce the risk of getting disease. Wash your little one's hands with soap and water. In addition, keep their skin clean by bathing regularly with soap.
- Avoid food that has fallen
There is a general notion about the safety of freshly dropped food, it is okay to consume. Some say 5 seconds or even 5 minutes. A study conducted emphasizes, 99% of bacteria will directly attach to the dropped food instantly. So, if there are salmonella bacteria or other harmful germs on the floor, it will directly stick to the food. Although these rules can be a bit loose when food falls on the floor of a house that is already sure of its cleanliness.
- Meet the vaccination schedule
Vaccination is one way to protect children from dangerous diseases. Meeting the vaccination schedule on time is an important thing that needs to be considered. Apart from mandatory vaccinations, there are also special vaccinations such as flu vaccination, which can be done every year to protect the body from viruses. Talk to your doctor about the vaccination for your child and family.
- Use antibiotics wisely
The use of antibiotics that are not appropriate can actually kill the good bacteria in the body which is in charge of fighting the harmful bacteria. In addition, the digestive system needs good bacteria to be able to do its job. Moreover, most of the diseases suffered by children are generally caused by viruses that cannot be treated by antibiotics. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can also increase antibiotic resistance.
- Clean all parts of the house regularly
Carpet is one of the furniture that must be cleaned regularly, so that dust or pet hair does not get sucked in. Open the doors and windows so that there is a change in the air in the room that uses the carpet. Likewise, the bed often harbors a variety of germs, which can trigger allergy symptoms. Clean bedding and change sheets at least once a week. In addition, be aware of the nests of germs around the bathroom, ranging from door handles that have never been cleaned, damp towels, used tissues that are not thrown in the trash, and so on.
- Keeping pets healthy
It is important to maintain cleanliness in pets, especially those with a high risk of carrying harmful bacteria. For example, turtles and snakes can carry salmonella bacteria. Although cats and dogs are at a lower risk, have your pet checked by the vet regularly. If you are concerned about the negative effects your pet may have on your child, talk to your pediatrician.
- Minimize contact with sick people
When a child or family member is sick, ask them to stay indoors as much as possible. Also wear a mask to prevent the virus from spreading when sneezing, coughing or talking. For children or other healthy family members, it is recommended to keep direct contact with patients to prevent germs from entering the body.
For optimal health of children and families, do these habits together with a healthy lifestyle. Consult a doctor, if the child has a special condition that is more susceptible to germs for appropriate precautions.