Rouhollah Shirzadi, the head of the Children's Medical Center Hospital and a pediatric pulmonology specialist, warned about the state of respiratory illnesses in children during the cold season at the 38th International Congress of Pediatric Diseases. He stated that with the onset of the cold months, infections of COVID-19 and influenza have increased, and these infections, along with air pollution, exacerbate respiratory diseases in children, including asthma, pulmonary allergies, and cough.
Increase in Visits to Clinics and Emergency Rooms
Shirzadi added: "During this season, visits to medical clinics and the workload of hospital emergency departments increase. Given that the school season coincides with these conditions, children's contact with each other increases, leading to a rise in the transmission of infections and respiratory illnesses." He emphasized that parents should avoid any close contact with individuals suffering from respiratory illnesses and should not send sick children to school.
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Symptoms of Respiratory Illnesses in Children
Shirzadi explained that viral infections may initially present with milder symptoms such as slight fever, runny and stuffy nose, and redness of the eyes. He added that upon observing these symptoms, the best recommendation is for the child to rest and not attend school to prevent the transmission of the virus and illness to others. "If new symptoms such as muscle pain and more severe fevers occur, the child may be infected with influenza or COVID-19. In such cases, families should pay special attention to the child's health status."
The Importance of Hygiene in Schools
The head of the 38th International Congress of Pediatric Diseases also emphasized the importance of hygiene practices in schools, stating: "Maintaining physical distance, handwashing, and wearing masks during peak illness times is very important." He also noted that reopening schools is essential, but families should limit their children's attendance at school in cases of illness to ensure it is not psychologically unsuitable for them. Children in educational environments not only gain knowledge but also learn social interactions.
Achievements of the Children's Medical Center Hospital
Shirzadi further mentioned the achievements of the Children's Medical Center Hospital, stating: "This hospital has ranked first in the country among a thousand treatment centers for children, infants, and adults. At our hospital, more than 150 transplants, over 100 kidney transplants, and the thousandth bone marrow transplant have also been performed, and we plan to hold a bone marrow transplant celebration at the Children's Medical Center next week."
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