Dhaka, Jan 03 (V7N) —As winter intensifies across Dhaka and the rest of the country, cold-related illnesses are significantly affecting children and the elderly. Reports of fever, diarrhea, colds, and respiratory problems have spiked in recent days.

Eighteen-month-old Rabiul Alam Nishat is among those affected, battling fever, diarrhea, cold, cough, and breathing difficulties. Under a doctor's advice, he is now using a nebulizer. “Every winter, my son falls sick. Many children in our neighborhood are also suffering from similar issues,” said his father, Rashedul Alam.

Doctors have noted a sharp rise in winter-related illnesses among children, with conditions like diarrhea, colds, coughs, and respiratory infections becoming more common. Hospitals such as Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital, Azimpur Maternity Hospital, and the Cholera Hospital have seen a surge in pediatric patients. The number of children seeking treatment for fever, colds, and pneumonia has nearly doubled compared to usual times.

Many of these illnesses are attributed to the sudden drop in temperatures and worsening air pollution, which exacerbate health risks. Cases of asthma and pneumonia among children have also risen, with late treatment often leading to complications due to parents first relying on over-the-counter medications.

At Azimpur Maternity Hospital, seven-month-old Khalid Hasan from Kamrangirchar was admitted on December 18 for pneumonia. His condition has improved with nebulizer treatment, but hundreds of children remain hospitalized for cold-related illnesses, including fever, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.

Dr. Rabeya Sultana of Azimpur Maternity Hospital highlighted that the combination of cold weather and air pollution has led to a surge in cases, with many children hospitalized for pneumonia.

Prof. Dr. Mahbubul Alam, Director of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital and Institute, emphasized the importance of hydration during winter, as children tend to drink less water in colder months. He also advised families to take preventive measures, such as wearing masks at home to avoid spreading infections to children.

Assistant Professor Dr. Nabila Akand of the Pediatric Respiratory Department at Dhaka Shishu Hospital stressed the urgency of seeking immediate medical attention for children displaying pneumonia symptoms, such as rapid breathing, fever, and difficulty eating. She encouraged exclusive breastfeeding for infants under six months and recommended annual influenza vaccinations for children with weak immune systems.

Dr. Akand also explained that younger children are more prone to bronchiolitis, while pneumonia is prevalent among those over two years old. She added that asthma symptoms often worsen during winter, and the risk of diarrhea also increases.

With the cold weather expected to persist, healthcare professionals are urging families to prioritize preventive measures and seek timely medical care to mitigate health risks for children.

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