Pre-School Health Examination Plays a Critical Role Against Infection Risk
Experts warn families to have their children's health checked against increasing infection risks with the reopening of schools.
Medicana Konya Hospital Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Hikmet Akbulut drew attention to the importance of having children undergo a comprehensive health examination before the new academic year.
The Importance of Pre-School Health Checks
As a new educational term begins, children's excitement increases while the responsibilities on parents' shoulders also multiply. Comprehensive health checks performed before schools open are of great importance in preventing many problems that may arise in the future.
In these examinations, alongside monitoring physical growth, certain tests need to be performed to catch hidden health gaps. Anemia, iron deficiency anemia, vitamin D, B12, and zinc deficiencies affect children's academic success.
Common Diseases in School-Age Children
Upper respiratory tract infections rank at the top of the health problems most frequently encountered in school-age children. Ailments such as the flu, common cold, pharyngitis, and sinusitis spread rapidly in crowded classrooms.
In autumn and winter months, tonsillitis and middle ear infections are also frequently observed. Additionally, contagious diseases such as chickenpox and influenza can lead to outbreaks within classrooms.
Digestive System and Vision Defects
Hand, foot, and mouth disease, which is frequently encountered at the nursery and primary school levels, transfers rapidly in common areas where hygiene habits are not yet fully established.
Alongside respiratory tract infections, gastroenteritis complaints such as vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea are also commonly seen. Furthermore, vision defects caused by standing close to the blackboard are noticed during this period.
Methods to Support the Immune System
It is stated that a healthy school term begins with balanced nutrition. While a clean-ingredient breakfast provides resistance all day long, probiotic foods strengthen the gut flora.
It is emphasized that avoiding packaged foods and spending time outdoors by benefiting from sunlight supports immunity.