Life has completely changed in the last few months. There is a fear of infection and everyone is trying their best to stay healthy. Although it’s right that staying at home is a good way to stay away from most infections, but you never know what the source of infection can be. Kids are not going to school and socialisation for them is minimum. But, are they really safe from diseases in lockdown?

Is your family safe from diseases in lockdown?

My daughter’s school closed a few months back and now they are having online classes. They hardly get to meet their friends too. It’s not easy to keep kids at home and sometimes they really get bored but right now it’s for the best. As parents, you have to be careful and take all the necessary precautions to keep your kids safe and healthy.

Stay up to date with vaccines – 

One of the things which I feel is important is to stay up to date when it comes to vaccinations and follow the chart properly. I was going through my younger one’s vaccination chart and saw a few vaccinations were due. So, I recently consulted her paediatrician and discussed with her about it. According to the doctor, one must avoid missing any important vaccinations for kids and adolescents especially the DTP booster vaccines. These vaccines provide immunity to kids from deadly diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is a triple vaccine which is important to prevent kids from infections and should be taken at recommended intervals to keep boosting immunity.

Also, these vaccines protect others from getting the infection too. In a way, you are preventing the spread of disease by taking the vaccine. At home, children may pass on the infection to younger siblings and to grandparents. Without vaccination, a lot of people will get infections and there will be a rise in the mortality rate. (1)

The vaccine is of different types to prevent these three deadly diseases

DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis) vaccine, which is given to babies from 6weeks to 14 weeks, then again at 15 months and the next booster at 4-6 years

DT (diphtheria and tetanus) vaccine, which is given to children but does not cover pertussis also known as whooping cough

Tdap (combined tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis) vaccine, which is given to adolescents (9-13years) and adults at 7-10 year intervals

Td (tetanus and diphtheria) vaccine, which is given to adolescents and adults (2)

Other than this, I also make sure of certain other things like –

  1. Kids eat healthy food and avoid outside food. I try to include as many fresh fruits and vegetables as I can so that they get their natural dose of vitamins and minerals.
  2. Avoid going out as much as possible. Also, follow proper hygiene habits like washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water after coming from outside.
  3. Wash and sanitise everything bought from outside, especially fruits and vegetables.
  4. Always keep a sanitiser handy, especially if stepping out.
  5. Last but not the least, wear a good quality mask when going out.

Our family’s safety is our main concern at this time. So, it’s important you consult your doctor and discuss any vaccinations which are due for your child. Also, make sure you follow all the safety norms to stay safe and healthy. It starts with us, so let’s try our best to not only follow but also teach our kids the importance of staying fit and healthy.

#DontWaitVaccinate your child now! Get more information on DTP booster vaccines here.

Disclaimer: 

The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Sanofi Pasteur India. Sanofi Pasteur India bears no responsibility for the content of the blog. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.

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