A GP has warned three viruses currently plaguing the UK which could be a serious health threat for babies
Thousands of parents could unwittingly be putting their children at risk of “serious” health issues this festive season. With 600,000 babies across the country preparing to celebrate their first Christmas, Dr Alexis Missick has expressed deep concern that new parents might unknowingly expose their little ones to a myriad of infections and bugs during the holiday period.
The UK Meds GP explained just how perilous the holidays can be for a newborn’s fragile immune system and urged parents to exercise extra caution even around their nearest and dearest. The expert highlighted three specific viruses currently causing chaos across the UK that could pose a serious health threat to infants.
These include the vomiting bug norovirus, the common flu and RSV, which can prove fatal for infants. Dr Missick advised any new parents to avoid exposing their babies to large groups of people until they’re around three months old to allow their immune systems time to develop.
Due to their weak immune systems, babies are more vulnerable to diseases and these can lead to more severe complications and long-term effects as a result.
The doctor dished out advice for parents fretting over their little ones this festive season: “Limit unnecessary contact between the baby and people carrying any infectious disease, even if it is just a minor cold. Those coming into contact with the baby should wash their hands before touching or carrying them to prevent the spread of disease.”
To shore up their defences, keep your youngster well-fed with plenty of breastfeeding or formula, as this can also help fend off symptoms of the dreaded winter vomiting bug – norovirus. The expert flagged up key signs in kids to watch out for, such as ongoing high temperature, chapped lips, or a drop in the amount of wet nappies. She warned: “In these instances, a doctor should be contacted immediately.”
As for RSV, which hits tots under five hard during chilly spells, she added that babies are especially susceptible in their first year due to less robust immune systems. She added: “Babies under the age of one are most at risk of catching RSV due to their weaker immune systems. Symptoms should not last longer than two to three weeks, but contacting a healthcare adviser if your baby shows symptoms is advised. Other methods of prevention include having good hygiene and making sure to regularly wash hands during the winter months.”
