According to the decision of the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers, from October 1, 2020, public and private kindergartens will be allowed to operate in Baku, Sumgayit and Absheron districts, and from September 15, 2020 in the remaining districts and cities. The restoration of kindergartens worries parents. They are worried that their children will be infected.
How should children protect themselves during this time?
Gadin.net reports with reference to publika.az that he clarified some important points with pediatrician Gunay Rasulova.
We present the interview:
- It was decided to open kindergartens. However, some parents are concerned about the dangers of the virus. What is your opinion on this? What should be done to prevent children from getting infected with the virus in kindergartens?
- Parents are worried about how to protect their children. To protect children, there are a few things to keep in mind. Parents should first make sure that their children have other preventive vaccinations. This is a very important issue. Parents should try to vaccinate their children seasonally. Most importantly, their immunity must be strong. In addition, children should be fed a healthy diet and go to bed on time. Because children with a healthy diet and normal sleep have a good immune system. I recommend that no child with flu symptoms be sent to kindergarten. It would be good if those children are isolated. It is important to pay attention to the fact that children's diets are rich in zinc and vitamin C. Let them use vitamin D prophylactically. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, it is very important not to send sick children to kindergarten, to change the air in the rooms often, to ventilate. It is better for children not to have much contact with each other and to avoid close contact.
- How do you feel about young children wearing masks? Should they wear a mask at school or kindergarten on a daily basis?
- We recommend that children who are able to use the mask properly, regardless of age, wear a mask indoors. Usually children under the age of two may not wear the mask because they cannot use it properly. However, it is better for children over 2 years old to use a mask. They may not be worn outdoors. If the child can wear a mask and is not bothered, then he can easily use the mask.
- Do you think children should use disinfectants - alcohol? Sometimes adults use creams because regular use of alcohol can damage the skin. Is there such an alternative for children?
- It is necessary to teach children in schools and kindergartens to wait for social distance with other people. They should focus mainly on social distance. As for disinfectants, they can be easily used after washing your hands. It is recommended that hands be thoroughly washed for 30 seconds, including fingertips and fingertips, to the tips of the fingers, and that antibacterial agents be used after washing. Disinfectants may also be in children's bags. It is more convenient for them.
- People have been at home for a long time. In the past, children mostly walked in the park and took in the air. However, this was not possible in closures. Do you think they may be deficient in vitamin D?
- Children under 2 years of age can take vitamin D without interruption. We always recommend that children under 18 use this vitamin prophylactically in the winter. But during quarantine, children spend a lot of time indoors. It is a good idea for parents to get their children tested for vitamin D. If they are deficient in this vitamin, then they can take therapeutic doses. If normal, they should continue with a prophylactic dose.
- Autumn and winter are coming, when infectious diseases are more prevalent. How should children be protected during this period?
- Diseases occur in autumn and winter. Infections are also more common during this period. During this time, children should be vaccinated against influenza. In addition, try not to be indoors as much as possible. Although they must use the mask. It is necessary to pay attention to the frequent ventilation of their rooms and classrooms. It is recommended to use healthy, vitamin-rich foods. It would be better to walk more outdoors, because fresh air is very useful nowadays.