Preventing Cold & Flu in Children – Expert Tips by Dr. Prashanth Gowda | Best Child Doctor in HSR Layout
Cold and flu are among the most common illnesses affecting children, especially during seasonal changes and school months. According to Dr. Prashanth Gowda, Best Child Doctor in HSR Layout, building strong immunity and maintaining healthy habits are the key pillars in protecting kids from frequent infections. In his latest podcast, Dr. Gowda shares simple yet powerful preventive strategies every parent should follow.
Children have developing immune systems, making them more vulnerable to viruses. While catching a cold occasionally is normal, repeated infections may impact their growth, school performance, and overall well-being. Thankfully, prevention is very much possible with consistent care and awareness.
1. Boost Immunity Through Proper Nutrition
A balanced diet is the foundation of strong immunity. Include fresh fruits like oranges, apples, papaya, and berries which are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Green vegetables, nuts, eggs, milk, and homemade foods provide essential nutrients that help the body fight infections.
Dr. Prashanth Gowda emphasizes limiting junk food, sugary snacks, and packaged items as they weaken immunity over time.
2. Encourage Good Hygiene Habits
Simple habits can significantly reduce the spread of cold and flu viruses:
- Frequent hand washing with soap
- Covering mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing
- Avoiding touching face with dirty hands
- Using clean towels and tissues
Teaching these habits early makes children naturally protected in schools and playgrounds.
3. Ensure Adequate Sleep & Physical Activity
Sleep plays a crucial role in immune system recovery. Children should get 8–10 hours of quality sleep every night. Along with this, daily physical activity like cycling, outdoor play, or yoga helps strengthen the body and improves resistance to infections.
4. Stay Hydrated & Keep Warm
Proper hydration flushes out toxins and keeps the respiratory system healthy. Warm fluids such as soups, turmeric milk, and herbal drinks are especially helpful during cold seasons. Dressing children according to weather changes prevents sudden exposure to cold air.
5. Timely Vaccinations & Regular Checkups
Vaccinations protect children from serious flu-related complications. Regular pediatric visits help monitor growth, immunity levels, and early signs of illness. Early treatment prevents minor colds from turning into severe infections.
Final Thoughts
Preventing cold and flu in children doesn’t require complicated measures — just consistent healthy habits, good nutrition, hygiene, and expert guidance. Dr. Prashanth Gowda’s podcast offers valuable insights that empower parents to raise healthier, happier kids year-round.
If your child experiences frequent infections, consulting a pediatric specialist early can make a huge difference in long-term health.
FAQs – Cold & Flu Prevention in Children
1. How often is it normal for children to catch a cold?
Children may get 6–8 colds a year, especially in school-going age, but frequent severe infections should be evaluated by a doctor.
2. Which foods help boost immunity in kids?
Fruits rich in Vitamin C, green vegetables, nuts, eggs, curd, and homemade meals strengthen immunity naturally.
3. Can cold weather itself cause flu?
Cold weather doesn’t cause illness directly, but it helps viruses spread more easily when immunity is low.
4. When should I take my child to a pediatrician for cold symptoms?
If fever lasts more than 2 days, breathing is difficult, appetite is poor, or symptoms worsen, consult a doctor immediately.
5. Are flu vaccines safe for children?
Yes, flu vaccines are safe and recommended to reduce severity and complications of influenza.