'It is very important to ventilate classrooms regularly'

Pediatric Health and Diseases Specialist Dr. Ali Şal stated that infectious diseases, which can cause serious health problems, are more common in children until their immune systems develop, and therefore emphasized the importance of disease protection. He listed the most common diseases during the school year as follows:

Upper respiratory tract infections: Cold, flu, pharyngitis, tonsillitis

“Gastroenteritis: Gastrointestinal infections accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting

Hand-foot-mouth disease: It is particularly common in younger age groups.

“Childhood diseases such as chickenpox and measles

“Contact-transmitted diseases such as lice and scabies.”

'COMPLETE THE VACCINATION SCHEDULE'

"School-aged children may experience an average of 6-8 upper respiratory tract infections per year. However, it's possible to reduce this number with simple precautions," said Specialist Dr. Şal, adding, "First, complete the vaccination schedule. Incomplete vaccinations not only expose children to serious illnesses but also put their classmates at risk."

'REGULAR VENTILATION OF CLASSROOMS IS VERY IMPORTANT'

Specialist Dr. Şal said, “Teach hand hygiene. Frequent handwashing can prevent more than 60% of infectious diseases. Ensure children don't share personal items. Towels, water bottles, pens, and masks should be personal. Pay attention to nutrition. Foods like fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and eggs strengthen the immune system. Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Insufficient sleep weakens the immune system. Ventilate indoor spaces. Regular ventilation of classrooms is especially important. Don't send sick children to school. The notion that "you can get over an illness on your feet" can lead to the entire class becoming infected.”

Dr. Şal, a specialist, stated that the widespread misinformation about children's health exacerbates parents' anxiety, leading to unnecessary practices. He highlighted the following common misconceptions about infections and immune systems, particularly in school-aged children: "My child gets sick a lot, so their immune system must be weak." Frequent illnesses are normal to a certain extent during school. "Antibiotics are necessary for the flu" is a misconception. The flu is a viral illness, and antibiotics are ineffective in its treatment. "Going to school while sick doesn't cause social problems" is also a misconception. This accelerates the spread of diseases. The biggest mistake families make is trying to keep their children on their toes with medication when they're sick. However, the real course of action is to ensure their children rest and avoid sending them to school during illness. This will both accelerate the child's recovery and prevent outbreaks."

DHA

Reporter: News Center