Baby Talk - 11/7/19

Infants have not yet fully developed their immune system, resulting in them getting sick more easily and staying sick longer. The following tips may help you in reducing the occurrence of sickness for baby.

• Crucial first two months – Until baby has the first round of shots, usually at two months of age, keep baby at home. Exposing baby to crowds at this delicate time may also expose them to germs that they are not yet equipped to fight off.

• The dreaded stranger – We all know that babies are magnets! They attract everybody. Strangers seem to always want to touch baby’s face or hands. If your baby is being held or in a baby carrier, others are less likely to touch baby. Keeping the canopy down on the stroller also keeps germy hands away from baby.

• Sick family and friends – Again, we need to protect baby from germs. Ask family and friends to not visit if they are sick or have had a fever within the past two days. With modern technology, they can see baby via FaceTime and visit when they will not put baby’s health at risk.

• Keep hands clean – Thoroughly wash your hands, as well as the hands of anyone who handles your baby, every time you come in from a public place, eat, or change a diaper. It is amazing how many bacteria and viruses can be transferred via your hands to baby. Keeping alcohol- based hand sanitizer in your purse or diaper bag is a great idea for when you are out of the house.

• Germs are everywhere – Sanitizing wipes should be your best friend! Using them to wipe down shopping carts, public tables, high chairs, the list goes on and on, will protect baby from germs, which can live on surfaces for hours. They should be a staple in your diaper bag.

• Supplies – If baby does get sick, having a few supplies on hand will help to deal with baby’s cold. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and makes it easier for baby to breathe when congested. Baby ointment helps to heal chapped baby cheeks. A thermometer is essential.

What suggestions do you have for keeping baby from getting sick? Please, share.