Rainy days, runny noses

Dr. Jade Rojas-Neri on spotting early signs and strengthening your child's defenses

- JANE KINGSU-CHENG

Not only has the rainy season begun, but the habagat is also making its presence felt more frequently. With these changing weather patterns, parents are braving themselves for their children to get sick more often.

"Viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, and RSV tend to spread more easily during the rainy months," explains pediatric pulmonologist Dr. Jade Rojas-Neri, who is also a mom to a seven-month old baby. "These viruses survive longer in cool, humid weather and spread faster under such conditions."

We also tend to keep windows shut to keep the rain out, which limits fresh airflow, especially in crowded spaces like schools and daycare centers.

Unfortunately, this creates an ideal breeding ground for germs to linger and spread more easily among children.

Spot the early signs

Knowing when your child is coming down with something can help you act fast. Dr. Jade shares that symptoms usually appear about five to seven days after exposure. "Early signs include a scratchy throat, sneezing, and a runny nose that starts clear but thickens. A dry cough may develop and later become wet. Some children may have a low-grade fever or seem more tired than usual. Babies can get fussier and eat less."