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Rivals on the field join forces for mental health A yoga break at your desk can do wonders Think pink to flex your fashion and beauty style Photo: Guy Bailey: Styling: Viva Vayspap ealth professionals and Aussie H parents know that, along with winter sports, puddles and hot chocolate, the colder weather can mean a raft of kids ailments and illnesses While it is a myth that cold, or wet, weather can actually make you sick. it does mean children tend to spend more time indoors together, more easily passing on germs, infections and viruses. ‘Add to that the fact that some viruses thrive and spread better in cooler and less humid air, and that children’s immune systems may be more vulnerable over winter, and it can be a tough time for families juggling pint-sized patients and the demands of work and everyday life So what is in store for us this winter? Dr Sarah McNab, a paediatrician, parent and Director of General Medicine at The Royal Children’s Hospital. Melbourne, says while itis really hard to predict in this post-lockdown era. there will be a return of all of the viruses that we used to know including colds, influenza (also known as the flu), ear infections and RSV, a common viral respiratory infection. Dr McNab says while RSV in kids is normally associated with mild to moderate cold-like symptoms — generally lasting between eight and 15 days — it is also a common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one and can trigger asthma symptoms if your child is a sufferer. “One thing that's causing concern in Victoria is a nasty bacterial infection known as strep A, which in its less severe form presents as a sore throat and a mild illness but can develop into a more invasive disease which quickly escalates.” she warns. Symptoms can include fever. a sunburn-like rash, irritability, nausea or vomiting, high-pitched crying, cold or mottled limbs, refusal to eat or feed, not wanting to walk and difficulty breathing Parents should seek immediate medical care if they see signs in their children. Perth GP Dr Joe Kosterich says gastro is also common across winter, and the whole year round, “While it can be caused by different germs, the most common cause is a viral infection,” Dr Kosterich says “Gastro is very easily spread and while most children won't need to take any medication for gastro, they will need to drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated For the cold and flu, make sure your child has plenty of rest. enough fluids and use steam inhalation if you feel that helps” For children with asthma or any kind of wheezing illness, an asthma management plan should be followed and see your GP if you are concerned, Dr Kosterich says. HOW TO PREVENT KIDS GETTING SICK IN THE WINTER @ Stay up to date on vaccinations including the annual flu vaccine and Covid-19 vaccines if eligible. @ Keep your kids at home from daycare, kindergarten or school if they are unwell. @ Wash hands regularly. @ Eat healthy foods, stay hydrated and get lots of rest. “if there's one thing we proved during the pandemic, it's that we reduce all viruses by staying home when we're sick and looking after each other.” Dr McNab says.
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