Climate change is stress-testing every child’s immune system
Climate change might be quietly impacting the health of children and adolescents. Scientific evidence regarding the effects of climate change on this particular age group is sobering. It points clearly to a negative association between climate change and aspects of a child’s health like physical and mental wellness, overall wellbeing, and family and social functioning. Some experts have even stated that these effects will only get compounded in a matter of years. One thing is clear, however that the ill effects can be minimized and even prevented in some cases through timely intentional action.
To help us navigate this, Dr. Bhaskar Shenoy, Consultant Pediatrician at Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, joins Faye D’Souza, in a must-watch episode of the Doc’s Pod series. This conversation on 'Climate Change & Kids’ Health' is a goldmine for parents who want to move from panic to protection.
How can I support my child against the threat of climate change?
A child’s systems are uniquely vulnerable as they are in a state of development making her far less capable of fighting infections. While adults have years of exposure to infections and “immunity memory”, this is not so for children whose immune systems are still learning to defend themselves against germs and microbes. Climate change through weather fluctuations – extreme temperatures can challenge the developing immunity of a child. Frequent infections can further overburden the immune system.
A simple guide to staying protected
S.H.A.K.E. formula is an easy acronym to remember and act on to keep one’s family protected.
S for Sanitizing Surfaces Often – Sanitizing surfaces helps in reducing germ load in frequently touched surfaces.
H for Handwashing regularly for 20 seconds - Scientific research has pointed out that proper handwashing could protect about 1 out of every 3 young children with diarrhea, and usually 1 out of 5 young children with respiratory infections like pneumonia. A recent study from WHO has stated that handwashing could be our defence against antibiotic resistance that is now a major global public threat, specially in urban areas. A habit so small but the numbers clearly show how big its impact can be – parents should inculcate this habit among children from a young age so that it becomes a part of their daily routine.
A for Avoiding self-medication – One shouldn’t consumer medicines just because it feels convenient – a medical expert should be consulted for accurate treatment of an infection.
K for Keeping wounds clean with an antiseptic liquid – Broken skin can become a breeding ground for infection causing germs, cleaning wounds with an antiseptic liquid helps in preventing infection.
E for Eating fresh and healthy food - Body’s strength comes from what we nourish it with, it is important to eat nutritious food to lead a healthy and energetic life.
Savlon Swasth India Mission believes in hygiene as the cornerstone of prevention. In a climate-stressed world, these everyday actions are not just about cleanliness. They give children’s immune systems the space they need to grow stronger, rather than constantly fighting the next infection.
Since 2016, ITC's Savlon Swasth India Mission has touched the lives of over 14 million children with its innovative outreach and is one of the largest hand hygiene education programmes run globally. This ongoing initiative has effectively instilled hand hygiene practices among primary school students, demonstrating tangible results leading to habit change.
As per the Kantar impact report in March 2024 commissioned to assess impact for the Savlon Swasth India Mission in select centres, it was observed that there is an increase in overall handwashing occasions by children who have attended the programme. Mothers also perceived their child’s health to have gotten better post the campaign which points to the initiative’s role in increasing awareness about handwashing. The study also reports on higher compliance to handwashing occasions by children who had been a part of the program. The school initiative has also generated conversations where children are discussing about the initiative and mothers are discussing about the improvements in their child’s handwashing habits and the program benefits.
With a focus on innovation in design and communication, the mission has introduced various initiatives such as Savlon Healthy Hands Chalk Sticks, Savlon ID Guard, and the recent Hand Ambassador and Handwashing Legend campaigns, all aimed at fostering education and promoting good hygiene habits.
Savlon Swasth India is a mission towards ensuring the good health of all our children and thus enhancing their performance to shape the future of a billion dreams. Healthier kids, stronger India!
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