As a parent, you must have noticed that your children tended to get sick more frequently when they were younger.
On the other hand, children seemed to be less susceptible to Covid-19 when the pandemic first started.
What is the explanation for this?
Protector of the body
The immune system is a vast network of organs, tissues, cells, proteins and chemicals that mainly functions to protect the body against disease-causing foreign intruders like bacteria, viruses and fungi.
It also plays other roles, like tissue repair, wound healing, elimination of dead and cancerous cells (at very early stages of cancer), and formation of healthy gut microbiota.
Among the components are white blood cells, spleen, bone marrow, skin, stomach and gut, and many more (see diagram).
There are two types of immune systems: innate and adaptive.
The innate immune system responds quickly and similarly to all threats, which is why it is also called the non-specific immune system.
It consists of the skin, mucous membranes, some white blood cells (i.e. phagocytes) and proteins.
The adaptive immune system responds more slowly the first time it comes into contact with a germ.
But once it has identified and memorised a specific germ, it can react faster and more effectively to subsequent infections, allowing the body to become immune against the germ.
It consists of some white blood cells (i.e. T cells and B cells) and antibodies.
Why children are vulnerable
It is normal for young children like toddlers and preschoolers to get sick up to eight to 12 times a year.
As a comparison, schoolchildren may get sick five to six times a year, while teens and adults may fall ill two to three times a year.
Young children are more vulnerable to infections because their immune system is still immature and developing, particularly their adaptive immune system.
When children start attending daycare or preschool, they are exposed to new germs.
Plus, it is easier to spread infections at these places because young children are sitting in close proximity to one another and they are not yet familiar with the proper cough/sneeze etiquette.
Their habits of touching their face and putting fingers in the mouth are other contributing factors.
Additionally, babies tend to get infected when their older siblings bring germs from school to home.
However, a more responsive innate immune system in children may be a reason why children are less susceptible to Covid-19.
As the innate immune system is better and quicker at responding to new threats like Covid-19, it can stop the SARS-CoV-2 virus before it attacks other parts of the body.
Adults however, have a largely adaptive immune system and a less responsive innate immune system, so their body may take more time to fight the virus off.
Boosting immunity
If you have schoolgoing children, you may be worried about their health and immunity against the germs and diseases out there.
There is no easy formula to boost your child’s immunity, but here are some key pointers:
A balanced and varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, lean meats, nuts and legumes is vital for a healthy immune system.
Make sure to get sufficient intake of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D and beta-glucan, which can help to support the immune system.
Encourage your child to spend at least 40-60 minutes daily being physically active, e.g. by cycling, swimming, jogging or playing sports.
Aim for a normal weight range based on your child’s age and height.
You can refer to the World Health Organization’s BMI-for-age charts.
Toddlers and preschoolers need 10-14 hours of sleep, including naps, while school children require nine to 12 hours of sleep.
Let your child know that they can always approach you if they have any problems or concerns.
Try to spend quality time with your child regularly.
Teach your child to practise proper handwashing and good cough/sneeze etiquette.
Ensure food hygiene when eating outside.
Make sure that your child completes the national immunisation schedule.
Exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke can cause serious and long-term health problems in children.
Try to stop if you are a smoker and avoid smoking in the house.
It is normal for young children to get sick frequently as their immune system is still developing.
However, if you have concerns or suspect any underlying health problem, seek your child’s doctor for advice.
And take these steps to help boost your child’s immunity and maintain their health.
Dr Amir Hamzah Abdul Latiff is a consultant paediatrician and consultant clinical immunologist/allergist. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Paediatric Association’s Positive Parenting programme in collaboration with expert partners. For further information, please email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
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