How to Keep Your Child Healthy During the Monsoon Season
Expert Advice by Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil | Pediatrician & Neonatologist, Gurugram
The monsoon season brings much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat, but it also brings with it a surge in infections—especially among children. The rise in humidity, stagnant water, and fluctuating temperatures can create the perfect environment for diseases like the common cold, flu, diarrhea, dengue, skin infections, and more.
To help you navigate this tricky season, we bring you expert advice from Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil, a trusted Pediatrician and Neonatologist with over 10 years of experience. He is currently associated with Cloudnine and specializes in the care of preterm newborns and pediatric intensive care (PICU). His clinic is located at Shop-101, Ground Floor, Conscient One Mall, Sector 109, Gurugram.
🦠 Why Are Children More Vulnerable During the Monsoon?
According to Dr. Parveen, children have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to:
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Airborne viruses (like influenza)
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Waterborne diseases (like cholera or typhoid)
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Mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue or malaria)
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Skin infections due to constant dampness and sweating
Thus, preventive care and quick medical intervention are key to keeping your little ones safe and healthy.
✅ Top Pediatrician-Recommended Tips to Keep Kids Healthy in Monsoon
1. Boost Immunity with the Right Diet
A strong immune system is the first line of defense.
Include in your child’s monsoon diet:
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Fresh seasonal fruits: Papaya, pomegranate, apple
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Leafy greens (well-cooked)
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Turmeric milk
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Homemade soups with garlic and ginger
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Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, amla, and lemon
💡 Tip from Dr. Parveen: Avoid street food, raw salads, and cut fruits sold outside during monsoon.
2. Encourage Regular Handwashing
Germs spread rapidly through hands during rainy days.
Teach your children to:
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Wash hands before meals and after using the toilet
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Use soap for at least 20 seconds
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Keep nails trimmed and clean
3. Dress Your Child Appropriately
Choose clothes that dry quickly and avoid tight or synthetic fabrics.
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Use breathable cotton clothes
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Ensure shoes are waterproof
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Carry an extra set of clothes to school
👶 For babies: Use light cotton layers and change damp clothes immediately to prevent rashes.
4. Protect Against Mosquitoes
Monsoon is peak season for dengue and malaria.
Dr. Parveen’s advice:
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Use mosquito nets and screens
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Apply child-safe mosquito repellents (especially in the evening)
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Avoid water stagnation around your home
5. Keep Drinking Water Clean and Safe
Contaminated water can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and jaundice.
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Always give boiled or filtered drinking water
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Ensure school water bottles are cleaned daily
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Avoid cold or ice-based drinks from outside vendors
🚨 Warning: Watch for signs of dehydration like sunken eyes, dry mouth, or no tears while crying.
6. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
Going from a cool room (AC) into the humid outdoor air can cause colds or throat infections.
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Keep indoor temperatures moderate
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Dry off your child immediately after getting wet in rain
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Carry raincoats and umbrellas when stepping out
7. Maintain Indoor Hygiene
Closed rooms + high humidity = breeding ground for fungi and bacteria.
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Use a dehumidifier if needed
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Clean damp corners, mats, and curtains regularly
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Keep toys and surfaces sanitized
🏥 When to Visit a Pediatrician?
Seek immediate medical care if your child shows:
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Fever lasting more than 2 days
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Persistent vomiting or loose stools
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Rashes or skin peeling
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Breathing difficulty or wheezing
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Excessive sleepiness or irritability
Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil emphasizes not to delay treatment, especially in infants or children with pre-existing health issues.
📍 Meet Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil – Your Child’s Health Partner
Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil
Pediatrician & Neonatologist | Cloudnine Hospital
Specialist in Preterm Care & Pediatric Intensive Care (PICU)
Clinic Address: Shop-101, Ground Floor, Conscient One Mall,
Northern Peripheral Rd, Block R, New Palam Vihar Phase 1, Sector 109, Gurugram
📞 For Appointments: Visit Cloudnine or walk-in during clinic hours
✨ Final Thoughts
Monsoon should be a time of fun, paper boats, and fresh air—not doctor visits and fevers. With a little extra care, hygiene, and medical guidance, you can ensure that your child enjoys the rainy season safely and happily.
Follow these tips from Dr. Parveen Kumar Antil and stay one step ahead of seasonal illnesses.