Schoolchildren must practise good hygiene to keep themselves healthy

Proper hygiene and helping them maintain a clean environment are key factors in preventing respiratory issues among schoolchildren. Photo: The Star/Art Chen

Respiratory issues among schoolchildren is a consistent concern in Malaysia, and parents are always finding ways to ensure that their child is in the pink of health, especially when they go back to school.

But as the new school calendar begins next week, keeping kids healthy can be challenging, especially when school canteens, classrooms and toilets are hot spots for infectious viruses and bacteria to thrive.

This in turn creates a host of health complications ranging from common cold or something severe like asthma or pneumonia and these problems can cause distress for children and their families.

Fortunately, paediatrician Dr Noor Zehan Abdul Rahim says many of them can be prevented or managed effectively with the right strategies.

Dr Noor Zehan says schools are a common place for bacteria to spread as children are often in close contact with one another.

She adds common cold is one of the most frequent respiratory conditions that affect children, especially in school settings. Other conditions that commonly affect kids include influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and strep throat (Group A Streptococcus).

“The high volume of interaction children have with one another in crowded environments create ideal conditions for the transmission of these viruses,” she says. “Additionally, grouping together during recess or sports activities in school further increases the likelihood of close interactions.”

Each of these illnesses presents unique challenges, but they share the usual factors in their spread: close contact, shared surfaces and the easy transfer of germs from one child to another.

For children who are particularly vulnerable due to chronic conditions like asthma – that affects the airways, causing symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing, particularly during physical exertion – or allergies, these illnesses can have more severe consequences.

Dr Noor Zehan explains that schools are usual breeding grounds for respiratory illnesses due to a combination of factors. “The first is close proximity,” she shares. “In school, children are often in close contact with one another.”

“This makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to spread through droplets when a child coughs, sneezes or talks,” she adds. Children are also more susceptible to infections as their immune system is still developing.

While they build immunity over time through exposure to various pathogens, they are generally more vulnerable to illnesses than adults. Being around germs also plays a role.

At school, children frequently come into contact with common surfaces such as desks, door handles and shared school supplies which can harbour viruses and bacteria. “If children touch these areas and then touch their faces – particularly eyes, nose and mouth – they can introduce these germs to their bodies,” Dr Noor Zehan explains.

Simple but effective

While it is not always possible to prevent respiratory infections, there are several strategies that can help reduce the risk.

Dr Noor Zehan says teaching children proper hygiene and helping them maintain a clean environment are key factors in preventing respiratory issues.

“One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the transmission of germs is regular handwashing,” she says.

Children should be encouraged to wash their hands frequently, particularly before eating, after coughing or sneezing and after touching shared surfaces like desks and door handles.

Vaccinations and reducing exposure to potential triggers can help ensure a healthy and safe school experience for children. Photos: Freepik

“Keeping tissues or handkerchiefs handy and teaching kids how to use them properly can also help limit the spread of germs,” she adds.

Limiting exposure is important as keeping children away from sick individuals can also help prevent the spread of illness.

Although it may not always be possible to avoid exposure, especially in school environments, encouraging kids to stay home if they feel unwell can help reduce the transmission of infections.

Vaccines also play an essential role in preventing respiratory infections. Dr Noor Zehan advises that parents ensure their children are up to date on recommended immunisations as they not only protect individual children but helps prevent outbreaks in schools.

“To help lower the risk of respiratory infections, parents should think about getting their kids vaccinated before they return to school,” she says.

By taking these preventative measures, parents can reduce the chances of their child contracting or spreading respiratory infections such as the flu (influenza), Covid-19, pneumococcal disease, whooping cough (Tdap), as well as measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) at school.

Managing chronic conditions

For children with chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies, managing respiratory issues in school can be more challenging.

However, Dr Noor Zehan assures that it is safe for children with these conditions to participate in physical activities at school, even during cold and flu season.

“Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) can be a concern, especially in cold, dry air or when a child is exposed to allergens,” she explains. “The key is to take proper precaution; a proper warm up and cool down routine can also help prepare the airways for exercise and reduce the chances of an asthma flare up.”

“Children with asthma should also use their prescribed inhalers or other medications as directed by their doctor before engaging in physical activities at school,” she says.

Children are vulnerable to infections as their immune system is still developing.

Allergies can also be triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust or pet dander – tiny proteins from flecks of skin shed by pets – which may be more prevalent during outdoor activities.

Cold and flu season can also exacerbate allergic reactions, as viruses can make the immune system more sensitive to allergens.

“It is important for kids to maintain good hygiene through frequent handwashing to avoid catching illnesses,” Dr Noor Zehan says.

“Ensuring good ventilation and minimising exposure to common allergens in classrooms can help children with allergies participate in physical activities safely.”

Teach the teachers

Educating school staff about the common respiratory issues that affect children is essential in creating a safe environment for students.

By providing training on how to recognise and manage respiratory issues, school can ensure that staff are equipped to respond appropriately in the event of an asthma attack or other respiratory health concerns.

“With training, clear protocols, collaboration with healthcare professionals and promoting awareness, schools can ensure that all staff members are equipped to recognise, manage and respond to respiratory health challenges,” Dr Noor Zehan explains.

School management can ensure that classrooms, common areas and shared spaces are regularly cleaned and disinfected, particularly during cold and flu season.

“Proper ventilation can also help reduce the spread of respiratory pathogens,” she adds.

“This proactive approach enhances the well-being of students and helps them succeed in their activities and social interactions at school,” she concludes.