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3 Reasons Why Kids Shouldn’t Use Adult Products
As a new parent, you do everything you can to ensure that your baby feels comfortable and stays healthy. When it comes to taking care of their skin, you research...
3 Reasons Why Kids Shouldn’t Use Adult Products
As a new parent, you do everything you can to ensure that your baby feels comfortable and stays healthy. When it comes to taking care of their skin, you research the safest baby care products and buy only the ones your paediatrician approves of. Every spot on their skin, and every rash is a cause for concern to you, and you are prompt at addressing it. But things change when your little baby heads into toddlerhood, and then, before you know it, into an almost independent preschooler kid! While every parent knows that a baby’s skin is different from that of an adult, with a kid’s skin, many parents feel confused. Kids aren’t as delicate as babies, but also not as tough as adults! Their skin, much like their growing bodies, has its own set of needs which is different from that of an adult. So if you are thinking of using adult skincare products on your kid’s skin, you might want to reconsider. Here are 3 reasons why kids shouldn’t use adult products, especially when it comes to their skin: A kid’s skin is structurally different from that of an adult’s Skin performs multiple functions. It is our body’s barrier against physical, biological, and hazardous chemical substances and also helps to regulate temperature via mechanisms such as sweating. The skin barrier function in kids is more developed than in babies, however, it is still not fully developed. Their skin is also thinner than an adult’s. As a result, a kid’s skin is less resilient and is affected more by environmental triggers and changes such as temperature changes, pollution, and harsh sun rays. It is more prone to loss of moisture, dryness, irritation, sunburns, and any skin infections/allergies than an adult’s skin. As such, using adult skincare products for your kid is not a great idea. Your kid needs products that are specially formulated for their developing, sensitive skin. The skincare and bath products you use for your kid should be free of harsh chemicals that can irritate their skin. They should specifically address kids’ skincare issues such as dry skin and scalp, itchiness, and rashes. CITTA’s Baby & Kids range of skincare and bath products is crafted with nourishing natural ingredients in formulas that are toxin-free, effective, gentle, and safe for 0 to 10-year-old kids. Tender Foaming body wash is enriched with hydrating Aloe Vera and anti-irritant Hydrolysed Rice Protein to nourish the skin and prevent it from dryness post-bath. Soothing Talc-Free Powder is designed to absorb excess oil and sweat from your kid’s skin with an innovative and safe formula made of Corn Starch, Oat Kernel Flour, and Kaolin Clay. A kid’s skin is more prone to pH level changes The pH level of the skin is one of its key protective mechanisms. The optimal skin pH for the face and body is somewhere around 4.75-5.75, meaning that it is slightly acidic in nature. When this pH level is disturbed, the imbalance interferes with the functioning of the protective barrier, and the skin becomes more prone to infections. The imbalance can also cause the skin to become excessively dry, irritated, or sensitive. External factors such as temperature changes, harsh chemicals in skincare products, and pollution can affect our skin’s pH level. As a kid’s protective skin barrier is still developing, it is more prone to pH level changes. Your kid needs superior skincare products free of harsh chemicals, and ones that will maintain his/her skin’s natural pH balance while nourishing it, like CITTA’s range of Baby & Kids products. A kid’s hair is structurally different from that of an adult’s Kids' hair is texturally thinner than adults. Their scalp also produces lesser oil than an adult’s. As such, using adult hair care products, which mostly contain chemicals designed to remove oil from the hair and scalp can work adversely for your kids’ hair. Your kid may even be sensitive to the strong fragrances used in adult products. CITTA’s Tender Foaming Shampoo is enriched with three natural oils to ensure that your kid’s hair stays well-nourished, hydrated, and soft at all times. It is free of harsh chemicals and contains an IFRA-certified mild fragrance that is allergen-free, making it perfect for your kid. While parenting kids can be a challenging task, taking care of their skin doesn’t have to be as difficult! By understanding the differences in their skin and hair as compared to adults, you can make the right choices for them.
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Benefits of Rose Water: A Skincare Powerhouse
Few skincare ingredients are as well-known as Rose, the queen of flowers, and for good reason. The exquisite flower has been a skincare essential for ages. The Ancient Egyptians have...
Benefits of Rose Water: A Skincare Powerhouse
Few skincare ingredients are as well-known as Rose, the queen of flowers, and for good reason. The exquisite flower has been a skincare essential for ages. The Ancient Egyptians have been known to use roses to protect their skin from the harsh heat of the deserts, the Romans believed roses could keep them looking young, and the Persians found roses to have healing properties as well as a fragrance paralleled to none. Back here in India too, roses have been a part of skincare rituals for a long time. Indeed, roses are a skincare powerhouse. Read on to know what are the benefits of rose water for your face and how you can incorporate it into your skincare routine. What are the benefits of roses for your skin? Soothes your skin Rose has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antiseptic properties which help to soothe irritated skin. It can help to reduce redness and make your skin feel cool, calm, and refreshed. It can be used to soothe mild acne, razor burns, and sunburns. Moisturizes and hydrates your skin Rose water helps to reduce transdermal water loss from your skin, locking in moisture. It is deeply hydrating for your skin. A spray of rose water can provide a much-needed boost of moisturization to your skin throughout the day. It can be especially useful if you have excessively dry skin. Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and fights signs of ageing Rose water is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C which are known for their anti-aging properties. The antioxidants in rose fight free radicals and undo oxidative damage. Regular use of rosewater helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, pores, and acne and slows down the process of ageing, giving you a youthful appearance. Balances skin pH and tones your skin Rose water helps to balance your skin’s pH levels and prevents it from becoming too dry or too oily. Rose water is also a natural toner and prepares your skin for the application of other makeup products such as moisturizers and serums. How can I incorporate Rose into my daily skincare routine? The best way to incorporate rose into your skincare routine is by using rose water, either as a mist or as it is. Rose water is made by a process known as steam distillation. The quality of rose water depends on the quality of the roses. CITTA’s Pure Rose Water Mist is made with the finest Damask Roses handpicked from Kannauj, the renowned Perfume City of India. It is naturally fragrant and retains all the goodness of magnificent roses. Rose water as a face mist/ face spray Exposure to dust, dry winds, and pollution can lead to a loss of moisture in our skin. It also makes our skin look dull and lackluster. Using a rose water face mist or spray is a great way to keep your skin hydrated, fresh, and glowing all day long. CITTA’s Pure Rose Water Mist and Hydrating Mist with Rose & Aloe Vera are convenient and handy, making it easier for you to take care of your skin even with your busy schedule. Rose water in face masks If you regularly use face masks in your skincare regimen, you can use rosewater instead of plain water in the masks for enhanced results. Rose water as a toner and primer As mentioned earlier, rose has natural astringent properties which make it a great skin toner. You can either spray some rose water mist directly onto your face or spray some onto a cotton pad and dab gently onto your skin. This can help to prime your skin before makeup. Rose water mist as a makeup setting spray Not just before makeup, rose water can also be used post-makeup to set the makeup in place and add a necessary dose of moisturization and glow to your skin. Also, read - The amazing benefits of aloe vera in Skincare What are the precautions I should follow while using rose-based skincare products? Rose water is generally considered safe for topical use. However, like with any other skincare product, you should be careful about what you put onto your skin. Always conduct a patch test before regularly using the product. Make sure that you purchase good quality rose water from a reputed vendor. You should also check the ingredient list on the product label carefully while buying the product to ensure that there are no harsh chemicals in your rosewater. CITTA’s Pure Rose Water Mist and Hydrating Mist with Rose & Aloe Vera are made with the finest quality ingredients and are free of harsh chemicals like parabens, sulphates, silicones, mineral oils, allergens, and toxins. They are formulated after stringent testing procedures to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy on all skin types. The queen of flowers, the rose is a highly coveted skincare ingredient. Its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, antiseptic, and hydrating properties make it suitable for a wide range of skincare applications. Whether you have dry skin or want to fight the signs of ageing, whether you want to enhance your makeup or prime your skin for it, rose water seems to be a great option for you. We hope that this article helped you understand the benefits of roses for your skin.
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The Amazing Benefits of Aloe Vera in Skincare
Aloe Vera is a skincare powerhouse! Aloe Vera leaves contain a gel that is usually considered safe for topical use on the skin of babies and adults. It offers multiple...
The Amazing Benefits of Aloe Vera in Skincare
Aloe Vera is a skincare powerhouse! Aloe Vera leaves contain a gel that is usually considered safe for topical use on the skin of babies and adults. It offers multiple benefits, making it a well-known ingredient in natural skincare products. What are the benefits of Aloe Vera for baby skin? To understand why Aloe Vera is good for your baby’s skin, we need to delve a little deeper into the nature of your little one’s skin. A baby’s skin is very different from that of an older kid’s and an adult’s. With a still-developing skin barrier function and immune system, your baby’s skin is more prone to skin irritation, infections, and allergies. Rashes are also a common condition that many babies suffer from, and can show up as itchy red spots, dry and flaky skin, baby acne, irritated skin, and sore skin. A baby’s skin also takes more time to adjust to temperature changes and needs to be protected well from the harsh rays of the sun to avoid sunburn, and dry winter winds to avoid loss of moisture from the skin. As such, what you choose to put on your baby’s skin is of utmost importance. Any baby care product that contains harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulphates, silicones, mineral oils, allergens, and toxins should be avoided to keep your baby’s skin healthy. Aloe Vera offers multiple benefits for your baby’s skin. Aloe Vera gel is rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and B12 along with multiple ingredients like amino acids which are great for skin care. Here are the benefits of Aloe Vera for your baby’s skin: Soothes your baby’s skin Aloe Vera helps to soothe your little one’s inflamed skin with its cooling properties. Its topical application has a calming effect on your baby’s skin and can offer relief from skin irritation. Hydrates your baby’s skin The compounds present in Aloe Vera prevent water loss from your baby’s skin. The high water content in Aloe Vera also helps to keep your baby’s skin hydrated naturally. Using an Aloe Vera-based product for your baby’s baths, which can be dehydrating for her delicate skin, is a great idea. CITTA’s Tender foaming body wash for Babies & Kids is enriched not only with Aloe Vera extracts, but also nourishing Coconut extracts, and Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, which acts as a natural anti-irritant for your baby’s skin. Our body wash ensures that your baby’s skin stays soft, well-hydrated, and nourished after a bath. Bathing your baby can seem like a challenging task in itself. Be well-prepared with our blog on the basics of bathing your baby. Moisturizes your baby’s skin Regular use of Aloe Vera gives a moisturizing effect to the skin, it is especially beneficial for dry skin. It can help to supplement your little one’s moisturization routine. The moisturizing properties of Aloe Vera can help to soothe your baby’s eczema. Soothes sunburn The hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties of Aloe Vera help to soothe sunburns on your baby’s skin. Provides relief from inflammatory rashes If you are wondering, “Can Aloe Vera cure baby rash?”, the answer is a bit complicated. The anti-inflammatory properties of Aloe Vera make it perfect to provide relief from inflammatory rashes, but it cannot be said to cure the same. More research is needed in this area. While most baby rashes are harmless and go away on their own without being treated, if the symptoms persist, you must seek medical attention for your baby. How do I use Aloe Vera on my baby’s skin? Aloe Vera gel is usually considered safe for topical application on a baby’s skin. However, like with any new ingredient, you must consult your paediatrician/dermatologist before using it on your baby’s skin and purchase the highest quality products. Avoid application on your baby’s face to prevent accidental ingestion, as it might not be safe for oral consumption. Always remember, every baby’s skin is different and can react differently to ingredients. Conduct a patch test on your baby’s elbow and observe for a minimum of 24 hours to see if there is any negative reaction on your baby’s skin. Discontinue usage if you observe any allergic reaction or discomfort in your baby. Using clinically tested products made with the highest quality ingredients and tested for safety is a good way to incorporate Aloe Vera into your baby’s skincare routine. CITTA’s Tender foaming body wash for Babies & Kids is a great place to start! What are the benefits of Aloe Vera for my baby’s hair? Aloe Vera nourishes your baby’s hair and promotes hair growth. Its hydrating properties help in keeping your baby’s hair soft and shiny. It is also known to balance the pH of your baby’s scalp. What about Aloe Vera’s benefits for adult skincare? If you are wondering if Aloe Vera offers benefits for an adult’s skin, the answer is a loud and clear yes! The soothing, hydrating, healing, and moisturizing properties of Aloe Vera make it a perfect skincare ingredient for adults. Our hydrating mist with Rose & Aloe Vera offers the benefits of exquisite Damask Roses and soothing Aloe Vera in a compact, easy-to-use, and unisex package for your skin’s hydration needs. Naturally fragrant, it refreshes your skin and keeps it looking fresh and glowing. It minimizes pores, tones your skin, and works perfectly as a makeup primer. It can also be mixed into face masks as a part of your skincare routine. With its wide range of skincare benefits, Aloe Vera is nature’s gift that keeps on giving! We hope that this article helps you to understand how you can make it a part of your skincare and your baby’s skincare routine as well.
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Skin Tone Of The Baby: 3 Common Questions Relat...
Welcoming your baby into this world is an unparalleled experience. It can simultaneously bring up multiple emotions — joy, love, relief, nervousness, and warmth! Even though you try to be...
Skin Tone Of The Baby: 3 Common Questions Related to Baby Skin Tone
Welcoming your baby into this world is an unparalleled experience. It can simultaneously bring up multiple emotions — joy, love, relief, nervousness, and warmth! Even though you try to be prepared for this moment, and all moments thereon, parenthood is a journey full of surprises. Everything is new! How your baby smiles, how she looks at you, her cries, her cute little shoes — we could go on forever. As a doting parent, the littlest of inconvenience to your baby becomes your biggest concern. While some of these could seriously cause harm to your little one, others might simply be things you really need not worry about. Skin tone or skin color of a baby is an issue like that, especially in countries like India. Many parents worry about the skin color of their baby. They worry about the changes that take place in their baby’s skin colour as she grows up and frantically look for solutions that promise fair skin. Skin tone is a topic layered with years of social conditioning and might need a lot of unpacking to be addressed in the right manner. In this article, we would like to help you understand everything about your baby’s skin colour so that those worries might be put to rest. Your baby’s skin colour is a polygenic trait Your baby’s skin color is determined by the genes passed on from you and your partner. Skin color is what is called a polygenic trait, meaning that it depends on more than one gene. Genetics determine melanin, which in turn decides your baby’s natural complexion. The more melanin, the darker the complexion. Your baby’s skin color is not determined solely by the genes of either parent, but instead by a mix of both. What this would mean, in general, is that your baby’s skin color would be an average of both parents’ skin colors. However, occasionally, your child may also inherit the genes of an older ancestor such as a grandparent. While multiple myths and taboos proclaim that only the mother’s genes impact a baby’s skin colour, science says otherwise. What you need to remember is that your baby’s skin tone is a natural phenomenon that you cannot control or change as per your preference and that a fairer or darker skin tone says nothing about your child’s personality. How does a baby’s skin tone change from the time of birth? A newborn’s skin colour can change considerably within the first few weeks, and babies take as long as six months to develop their natural skin colour. A newborn’s skin can look pinkish, reddish-purple, or thin and transparent looking due to various reasons such as the number of weeks the mother was pregnant while giving birth or their transition from an intra-uterine to the extra-uterine environment. In time, as your little one’s body produces the colour-giving pigment melanin, your baby’s skin will darken a little and achieve its natural complexion. Which external factors can affect your baby’s skin colour? Your baby’s skin colour can be affected by certain external factors such as exposure to the sun and certain diseases. Melanin, the same compound which pigments the skin, also protects the skin from the harmful rays of the sun that cause sunburn and skin cancer. Melanin production on the skin can be adapted to sun exposure, meaning that the time your little one spends outdoors in the sun can affect his/her skin colour. If your baby spends long hours in the sun, her skin can get a darker tone, and if your baby is exposed to the sun for shorter durations, her skin colour will not change much. That said, your baby’s skin is very delicate. You should try to avoid sun exposure for your baby whenever you can, especially during times when the sun is at its harshest. Also, since clothing is the first layer of defence against the sun, you should also dress your little one in full-sleeved, comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes. You can start using baby moisturizer for your little one once she turns six months old, after consulting with your dermatologist. Apart from sun exposure, diseases like jaundice can cause your baby’s skin tone to change. Jaundice makes the skin look yellow. While mild jaundice is common in newborns, if the symptoms persist for a longer period of time, you should seek medical attention at the earliest. Since your little one’s skin is still developing its barrier function, it is more prone to infections, irritation, and allergies. This is why you may notice rashes on your baby’s skin which can be seen as red spots, blotchy or reddish skin, and flaky skin. Rashes are pretty common in infants and usually go away on their own without any treatment. But if your baby seems uncomfortable or has difficulty breathing, it can be a symptom of a severe condition, and you should seek medical attention. Also, know how to treat your baby's skin rashes How can I lighten my baby’s skin? If you are thinking about ways to lighten your baby’s skin tone or make your baby’s skin tone fairer, you should pause for a moment and reflect. Your baby’s skin colour is a natural phenomenon. Your baby is just as beautiful if he/she has darker skin. Race is a social construct that discriminates against fellow human beings simply on the basis of their skin colour. Racist behaviors have caused injustice against millions of human beings, and despite multiple efforts to change that, continue to do so. Many companies claim to sell “skin-whitening” or “skin-lightening” products to play on people’s insecurities of being dark-skinned. Talcum powders, “ubtans,” and fairness creams are some such products. These products can sometimes cause more harm to your little one’s skin than good. As a parent, your attitude of acceptance towards your little one’s skin colour can mean the difference between low and high self-esteem in life. Accept that your baby’s skin colour is just one part of his/her personality, just like any other trait, and support them in all their endeavors. It will surely lead to a happy life for both of you!
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Olive Oil for Baby Massage: Benefits and risks
Oil massages have been a part of Indian baby care traditions for a long time, and for good reasons. Originally performed by grandmothers, baby massages offer multiple benefits. They nourish...
Olive Oil for Baby Massage: Benefits and risks
Oil massages have been a part of Indian baby care traditions for a long time, and for good reasons. Originally performed by grandmothers, baby massages offer multiple benefits. They nourish your baby’s skin, improve skin texture, and moisturize it. Regular oil massages also promote the overall growth of your baby, strengthen their bones, and help in calming down your baby. Choosing the right oil for baby massage is of utmost importance to get all the benefits of this age-old practice. For how many months should I oil massage, my baby? While some experts recommend that you wait for 10-15 days before starting with oil massages for your newborn so that the umbilical stump dries and falls off, there are no hard-and-fast rules for when you should stop! Most parents give their babies regular oil massages for the first year. Some parents continue until their baby is a pre-schooler. You can also choose the frequency of the massages at your convenience. A daily massage might be possible for some mothers while you may feel more comfortable with a massage every other day, or every 3 days. When it comes to oil massages, all you need to ensure is that both you and your baby feel comfortable and enjoy it. Which oil is the best for baby massage: Olive, Coconut, or Almond? When choosing an oil for baby massage, your first consideration must be safety. All natural oils have different properties. Your baby’s skin is thin and delicate and can react differently to each. You should steer clear of known skin irritants like thyme, lemongrass, cumin, clove oils, and undiluted essential oils. For babies younger than 3 months, topical use of essential oils must be completely avoided. After 3 months of age, if you do feel there is a need for any particular essential oil in your baby’s skincare routines, you should dilute the oil in a safe carrier oil, such as Sunflower oil, and only go ahead after consulting with your paediatrician. After the consideration of safety, nourishment and texture are two other criteria you can use to select the best oil for baby massage. The best massage oil for your baby is one which can provide deep nourishment and has a non-sticky texture that absorbs easily into your baby’s skin. Natural oils like Coconut, Almond, and Olive offer unique benefits in oil massage for your baby. Coconut oil works as a great natural moisturizer for your baby’s skin while also fortifying skin and fighting dryness. It also has anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties, which can help to protect your little one’s skin from infections. Sweet Almond oil is a rich source of multiple vitamins which help to soothe skin issues like rashes, eczema, soreness, and dryness. Olive oil protects and hydrates your baby’s skin, and offers multiple other benefits which we shall discuss further in the article. Which oil should you choose for baby massage? A blend of the most nourishing ones! A blend of carefully selected multiple natural oils, such as our Nourishing Baby Massage Oil, allows you to get the advantages of each without losing out. Along with Coconut, Olive, and Almond oil, it also has 9 other natural oils such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Turmeric, and Basil to provide your baby with all-around nourishment and care. Is Olive oil massage good for babies? Olive oil has a very high nutritional value. It contains phenolic antioxidants, which protect your baby’s skin from the damage caused by free radicals. It is also rich in squalene which helps to deeply hydrate your baby’s skin. Squalene is also known to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier, which is much needed for your baby’s developing skin. Apart from this, Olive oil is also a natural moisturizer. The moisturizing properties of Olive oil help to keep your baby’s skin soft and supple. As such, massaging your baby with Olive oil can do more than just nourish your little one’s skin – it can help to deeply moisturize, hydrate, and protect your baby’s skin. Not just the skin, Olive oil massage offers many benefits for your baby’s hair too. Massaging your baby’s head gently with Olive oil can also help to soften and loosen their cradle cap scales. As it contains Vitamin E, it also promotes hair growth and keeps them healthy. Does Olive oil help babies sleep? Oil massages are an excellent way to calm down your baby and help him/her fall asleep! This is why many parents incorporate it into their baby’s bedtime routine. Olive oil contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and calm down your baby. Using a massage oil containing Olive oil along with other calming oils can help babies sleep. What are the side effects of Olive oil massage? Although Olive oil massage offers multiple benefits, there are some precautions you must take before considering it for your baby. Olive oil contains Linoleic acid and Oleic acid, out of which Oleic acid is present in a higher proportion. While Linoleic acid is helpful in improving the skin’s natural barrier, Oleic acid may irritate sensitive skin. While more research is needed in the area, it is recommended to not use Olive oil exclusively or extensively on your baby’s skin if he/she has extremely dry skin or skin issues like eczema. Also, you should follow some basic precautions before starting with any new product for your baby’s skincare, be it a new massage oil or a moisturizing balm. Always do a patch test by applying a small quantity on the elbow. Different skin types can react differently to products. Your baby’s skin is unique, what suits most babies might not be suitable for your little one’s specific needs. After conducting a patch test, observe for 24 hours. If you observe any irritation or uneasiness in your baby, discontinue the usage and consult your pediatrician. With any oil, be careful to avoid the ear, nose, and naval areas of your baby to avoid any infections. You should also ensure that you are buying only the best quality products which are free of harsh chemicals like parabens, sulphates, silicones, allergens, mineral oils, and toxins, and gentle on your baby’s skin. Read the ingredients on baby care product labels carefully before making any purchase. Olive oil is a highly nutritious ingredient. Including it in your baby’s diet when they start eating solids is a great way to obtain its nutritional benefits. When it comes to their skincare and haircare too, it offers many benefits. But since every baby’s skin is unique, you will need to consult with your paediatrician before using Olive oil exclusively for your baby’s massage. We hope this article helps you to make a conscious decision when it comes to your little one’s delicate skin.
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How to protect your babies and kids from H3N2 V...
Across states in India, there has been a surge in H3N2 cases due to a sudden and significant change in weather conditions. The influenza virus, particularly the subtype H3N2, has...
How to protect your babies and kids from H3N2 Virus?
Across states in India, there has been a surge in H3N2 cases due to a sudden and significant change in weather conditions. The influenza virus, particularly the subtype H3N2, has seen a new spike in the country, adding to the emotional distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising hospitalizations and an increasing number of affected children cause widespread concern among parents. Respiratory symptoms, such as a persistent cough, are common symptoms of this virus. India may be on the cusp of yet another season of alarming infections. What Is H3N2 Virus? The H3N2 virus, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza A virus. It usually spreads through pigs and has reached humans through them. The most common circulating virus in pigs is called “swine influenza.” H3N2 is a highly contagious virus that can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. Who Is The Most Vulnerable To The H3N2 Virus? H3N2 influenza is highly contagious and can cause severe illness, particularly in children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. People have witnessed millions of illnesses, thousands of hospitalizations, and hundreds of deaths in India due to this virus. While most people who get the flu recover without complications, the virus can cause serious health problems, particularly in young children. Children are more susceptible to the H3N2 virus because their immune systems are not fully developed. H3N2 Virus symptoms in children are similar to those of the common cold, but they can be more severe as well. Fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue are some common symptoms; children may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Children who have chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are at a higher risk of developing complications from the flu, which can lead to ear infections, pneumonia, dehydration, and respiratory failure. Effects of H3N2 Virus One of the significant effects of H3N2 virus on children is its impact on their education and mental health. Children who have the flu may miss several days of school, which can affect their academic performance. Moreover, the illness can be stressful for children and cause detrimental effects on their mental health, particularly if they have to miss school or other activities. They may feel isolated from their peers, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. How to prevent H3N2 influenza virus infection? Preventing the spread of the H3N2 virus is crucial to protecting children from the effects of the flu. If a child does get sick with the H3N2 virus, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity of the illness and prevent complications. Taking proper rest, drinking plenty of water, juices, and soups, and staying at home makes them feel better. Here are some effective ways to take care of children to prevent the H3N2 virus. Encourage Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent the H3N2 virus is to get vaccinated against the flu. The flu vaccine is safe and effective, and it can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick with the flu. It is recommended that children over six months of age should take the annual flu vaccine. Practice Good Hand Hygiene: The H3N2 virus spreads through respiratory droplets and can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. Therefore, it is essential to practice good hand hygiene to prevent the virus's spread. Encourage children to wash their hands frequently and to use hand sanitizer. Teach Proper Cough and Sneeze Etiquette: The H3N2 virus spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Therefore, it is essential to teach children proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Encourage them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they cough or sneeze. If a tissue is not available, they should cough or sneeze into their elbow. Keep Surfaces Clean: The H3N2 virus can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. Therefore, it is essential to keep surfaces clean and disinfected. Use disinfectant wipes or sprays to clean surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle can help prevent the H3N2 virus. Encourage children to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. A healthy lifestyle can strengthen the immune system, which can help fight off the virus. Stay Home When Sick: If a child is sick with the flu, it is essential to keep them home which can also help prevent the spread of the virus. Seek Medical Attention: If a child is down with the flu, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. The H3N2 virus can have significant effects on children. The virus can cause severe illness and lead to complications, that can affect a child's physical, social, and emotional health. Preventing the spread of the flu through vaccination and good hand hygiene is crucial to protecting children from the effects of the virus.
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