Consider the following ways to help protect your baby from illness.
Limit Visitors
Limit non-family visitors during the first eight weeks of life, especially children under the age of five years. Do not let anyone with a potential illness visit your baby. During flu season, keep children under six months of age home when possible.
Consider Breastfeeding
Colostrum has many nutrients and substances to protect your baby against infections. Breastfeeding may help to your baby’s immune system.
Wash Hands
Frequent hand washing can prevent the spread of germs. Teach your children the habit of washing their hands. Wash hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Cover Cough
Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Since you probably won’t be trying to open any doors with your elbow, the chance of spreading those germs drops dramatically.
Avoid Traveling
Try not to make travel plans in the first few months of your baby’s life before she is vaccinated to limit exposure to germs.
Immunize
Immunizations can be instrumental in protecting your child from illnesses like influenza and whooping cough. Not only should your baby get his or her vaccines as outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), all family members who will be spending time with the baby should be immunized too.
For additional questions, talk with your pediatrician at Green Hills Pediatric Associates.
The information and content on our website should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice from your doctor.
