Protecting Your Little One from Mosquitoes

With monsoon rains come the dreaded mosquitoes, bringing risks of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. Young children are especially vulnerable, so protection is crucial.

For babies under 2 months, avoid chemical repellents entirely. Use mosquito nets over cribs and prams, dress them in full-sleeved cotton clothes, and keep doors/windows screened. Natural options like neem oil (diluted) can be applied on clothes, not skin.

For older babies and toddlers, pediatrician-approved repellents with low DEET concentration (10-30%) or natural alternatives like citronella or eucalyptus oil can be used sparingly on exposed skin. Always test on a small patch first. Apply after sunset when mosquitoes are most active.

Inside your home, eliminate stagnant water in coolers, plant pots, and buckets. Use mosquito rackets instead of coils around children, as smoke can irritate tiny lungs. Electric liquidators are safer but keep them away from the sleeping area. Remember, one dengue-carrying mosquito can bite multiple times, so consistent protection throughout the day matters.

If your child develops sudden high fever, rashes, or unusual lethargy during monsoon, consult your pediatrician immediately. Early detection saves lives.

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