How to keep your child safe from water-borne diseases this monsoon

             Written by: Mantasha

4 August 2025

The rainy season brings lots of fun for kids, splashing in puddles, paper boats, cool breezes, but it also brings an increased risk of water-borne illnesses like diarrhea, typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Since children are more vulnerable, we must take a few simple steps to keep them safe and healthy.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Always make sure your child drinks clean, safe water. Boiled, filtered, or bottled water is best. If you're using tap water, make sure it's been purified properly.

Be Picky About Drinking Water

Photo Credit: Freepik

Encourage your child to wash their hands often, before eating, after using the toilet, and after playing.

Make Hand Washing a Habit

Photo Credit: Freepik

As tempting as those roadside golgappas and colorful juices may be, it’s best to steer clear during the monsoon. The water used may not be clean. Instead, try to offer home-cooked meals and freshly washed fruits.

Avoid Risky Foods

Photo Credit: Freepik

Make sure there’s no stagnant water in or around your home; it's a breeding ground for germs. Clean your water bottles, filters, and storage containers regularly.

Keep Things Clean at Home

Photo Credit: Freepik

A healthy immune system helps kids fight off infections faster. Include plenty of fruits, veggies, curd, and warm fluids in their diet. Even simple herbal drinks like tulsi water or mild homemade kadhas can help.

Strengthen their Immunity

Photo Credit: Freepik

Check with your doctor to ensure your child is vaccinated against diseases like typhoid and hepatitis A. These vaccines are safe and go a long way in preventing serious illness.

Stay Up to Date on Vaccines

Photo Credit: Freepik

If your child shows signs like loose motions, vomiting, stomach pain, or fever, don’t wait it out. It's always safer to check in with your pediatrician early on.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Photo Credit: Freepik