Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital Blog

Common Childhood Illnesses and Prevention Tips — by Dr. Pankaj Kumar

Childhood is a beautiful phase of growth and discovery — but also a time when children are vulnerable to infections and seasonal illnesses.
According to Dr. Pankaj Kumar (MD Pediatrics, KGMU Lucknow), Senior Pediatrician at Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital Varanasi, children’s immunity is still developing, making them more prone to diseases like cold, fever, diarrhea, and allergies.

Parents often worry when their child frequently falls sick — but most of these illnesses are preventable with awareness, hygiene, and timely vaccination.

🤒 1️⃣ Common Childhood Illnesses

a. Common Cold & Cough

One of the most frequent infections caused by viruses, especially during seasonal changes.
Symptoms: Runny nose, mild fever, throat irritation, coughing.
Care Tip: Keep your child hydrated and avoid giving antibiotics without doctor consultation.

b. Fever

Fever is the body’s defense mechanism.
If your child has a high or recurrent fever, it could be due to infection, teething, or even immunization reaction.
When to see a doctor: Persistent fever for more than 3 days or if child is lethargic.

c. Diarrhea & Vomiting

Usually caused by contaminated food or water.
Dr. Pankaj Kumar advises parents to maintain hygiene and give oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to prevent dehydration.

d. Ear & Throat Infections

Due to bacteria or allergies, especially in monsoon or winter.
Prevention: Keep child’s ears dry and avoid exposure to cold air or dusty environment.

e. Skin Allergies

Mosquito bites, fungal infections, or allergic rashes are common.
Always use mild soaps and cotton clothes, and consult a pediatric dermatologist if rashes persist.

💉 2️⃣ Importance of Immunization

Vaccination is the strongest protection for your child’s health.
Dr. Pankaj Kumar, who heads the Pediatric Immunization Unit at Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital, emphasizes timely vaccines as per the IAP schedule (Indian Academy of Pediatrics).

“Delaying vaccination increases the risk of severe infections like measles, polio, and pneumonia.”

Parents should maintain a vaccination card and never skip booster doses.

🥦 3️⃣ Nutrition & Immunity Building

Balanced diet plays a vital role in boosting immunity:
✅ Add seasonal fruits and vegetables
✅ Include milk, pulses, and iron-rich foods
✅ Avoid junk and sugary snacks

For infants, exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months is the best protection against infections.

🧼 4️⃣ Hygiene & Environment

Hand washing before meals, clean drinking water, and mosquito prevention are simple but effective ways to prevent diseases.
Ensure your child gets enough sleep and plays outdoors regularly for good physical development.

🚨 5️⃣ When to Visit a Pediatrician

Don’t delay medical attention if your child:

• Has a fever for more than 72 hours

• Is vomiting frequently

• Has rashes with high fever

• Shows breathing difficulty or persistent cough

Early diagnosis by a qualified Pediatrician like Dr. Pankaj Kumar helps in preventing complications and ensures faster recovery.

🏥 About Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital – Best Pediatric Hospital in Varanasi

Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital is one of the best hospitals in Varanasi for neonatal and pediatric care.
Under the guidance of Dr. Pankaj Kumar, the hospital offers advanced facilities for newborn care, growth monitoring, immunization, and treatment of infectious diseases.

“Our aim is to keep every child healthy, happy, and thriving — because prevention is always better than cure.”
— Dr. Pankaj Kumar, MD Pediatrics (KGMU Lucknow)

📍 DLW Road, Varanasi
📞 +91-8546059897
🌐 sparshmotherchildhospital.themedianetwork.in