As mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya surge during peak season, children remain among the most vulnerable. Their developing immune systems, coupled with their inability to fully express early symptoms, often delay diagnosis and treatment. This makes early prevention and protection not just important—but absolutely critical. Parents and caregivers must stay alert and proactive to safeguard children’s health during this high-risk period.Choosing the Right Repellents
A good mosquito repellent is one of the first lines of defense. For children, safety is the main concern. Products labeled specifically for kids are the best choice. Repellents that are DEET-free are mostly preferred by parents because of the presence of natural ingredients including lavender or lemongrass oil. These repellents are available in all variants be sprays, gels or roll-ons.However, it is crucial to use these products correctly. Parents should always read the label, avoid harsh chemicals, and never apply too much at once. Repellents should not be used on cuts or broken skin. When applied correctly and reapplied as needed, they offer strong protection without harming sensitive skin. When at home, mosquito nets can also be used as an alternative to harmful chemical mosquito repellents.Clothing Makes a Difference
The colour and material of a child’s cloth directly impact the chances of mosquito bites. Therefore, parents need to be vigilant enough while selecting clothing for their children. They should opt for such clothing, which cover the skin as much as possible. Fabrics such as cotton blend, denim and nylon are more effective as mosquitoes can’t penetrate through them. Colours also play a significant role as darker shades attract more mosquitoes because they absorb and retain heat, which helps the mosquitoes locate a host. Moreover, with the advent of technology, insect-proof clothing has been introduced to prevent insect bites including mosquitoes. These are skin-friendly and are a convenient way to keep the mosquitoes away.Why Early Testing Is So ImportantDespite taking precautions, bites can still occur. The key is how quickly symptoms are noticed and responded to. In children, mosquito-borne illnesses can progress more rapidly than in adults. If a child experiences fever, persistent headache, unusual tiredness, muscle or joint pain, or a rash, parents should seek medical advice right away.Doctors often recommend simple blood tests at the first sign of fever during mosquito season. These may include: • Complete Blood Count (CBC) to check platelet levels and white blood cell counts, which often drop in dengue • Rapid Dengue Test (NS1 antigen or IgM/IgG antibodies) to detect dengue infection in the early and later stages• Malaria Smear or Rapid Malaria Test to confirm or rule out malaria quickly• Chikungunya IgM test if joint pain and prolonged fever suggest chikungunyaGetting these tests done early helps identify the illness, ensures proper treatment, and avoids unnecessary antibiotics or antimalarial drugs. Quick diagnosis also reduces the risk of complications and helps control larger outbreaks. A Practical Approach for Parents
To protect children from vector-borne diseases, parents must take a well-rounded approach. This includes keeping the environment clean, preventing water from stagnating, using natural or organic mosquito repellents, dressing children in protective clothing, and staying alert to early symptoms. At the first sign of illness, it’s crucial to consult a doctor and avoid self-medication. With proactive care and attention to these preventive measures, the risk of infections like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya can be significantly reduced. After all, every child deserves to enjoy their formative years—free from illness—especially during the hot and humid months when mosquito activity is at its peak.By Dr. Medha, Pediatrician, Rainbow Children’s Hospital