Children and Infections: Understanding why children were more susceptible and the health issues they faced is essential to addressing these challenges and preparing for the year ahead.
Why were youngsters prone to more health problems in 2024?
The year 2024 witnessed a troubling trend, an increasing number of children faced various health challenges, ranging from seasonal illnesses to complex infections. Experts pointed to several contributing factors, including post-pandemic lifestyle shifts, environmental changes, and weakened immunity in children. While parents and caregivers did their best to protect their youngsters, the rise in health problems raised critical concerns about gaps in prevention and care. Understanding why children were more susceptible and the health issues they faced is essential to addressing these challenges and preparing for the year ahead.
Why were youngsters prone to more health problems in 2024?
1. Weakened immunity post-pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted children's exposure to everyday pathogens, which play a role in building immunity. Lockdowns, reduced social interaction, and prolonged indoor living weakened natural immunity in many children. As a result, they became more susceptible to common infections when restrictions eased in 2024.
2. Environmental factors
Increased air pollution and climate changes exacerbated respiratory illnesses in children. Data from health organisations indicated a rise in asthma and other respiratory conditions, especially in urban areas.
3. Nutritional deficiencies
Erratic dietary habits, often fuelled by the availability of ultra-processed foods, deprived many children of essential nutrients required for immunity. Iron, zinc, and vitamin D deficiencies were common culprits behind compromised immune responses.
4. Inadequate vaccination rates
Despite widespread efforts, gaps in vaccination coverage left some children unprotected against preventable diseases. Misinformation and access disparities contributed to this worrying trend.
5. Increased screen time
Excessive screen time led to sedentary lifestyles and disrupted sleep patterns among children. Poor sleep quality is directly linked to weaker immune systems, making kids more prone to infections.
6. Rise in stress levels
Children in 2024 faced heightened levels of stress due to academic pressures and adapting to hybrid learning environments. Chronic stress impacts immunity, making children vulnerable to various illnesses.
What health problems did children face in 2024?
1. Respiratory illnesses
Respiratory infections, including bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma exacerbations, surged among children in 2024. The combination of seasonal viruses and environmental pollution worsened these conditions.
2. Gastrointestinal infections
Cases of stomach flu, food poisoning, and other gastrointestinal issues increased, linked to compromised hygiene practices and the consumption of unhygienic food.
3. Skin allergies and infections
Skin conditions like eczema and fungal infections were on the rise, driven by changes in weather patterns, increased air pollution, and inadequate skincare routines.
4. Mental health challenges
An alarming number of children showed signs of anxiety, depression, and behavioural issues. The World Health Organisation flagged these issues as an emerging public health crisis in 2024.
5. Flu and seasonal infections
Frequent bouts of influenza and other seasonal illnesses, such as the common cold, plagued children, primarily due to reduced immunity and changing viral strains.
6. Obesity and related disorders
The combination of poor diets and sedentary lifestyles led to a surge in childhood obesity. This condition increased the risk of diabetes, heart problems, and joint issues in affected children.
7. Antibiotic-resistant infections
Misuse of antibiotics resulted in a rise in drug-resistant infections among children, complicating treatment for common bacterial illnesses.
To ensure healthier children in 2025, parents must adopt proactive measures to boost immunity and prevent illnesses. Encouraging balanced diets rich in nutrients, maintaining a proper vaccination schedule, and limiting screen time are critical. Outdoor play, adequate sleep, and good hygiene practices can further strengthen children's defences. Additionally, regular check-ups and awareness about mental health are vital. By fostering a holistic approach to health, parents can help their children navigate challenges and build resilience for a healthier future.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.
