Dr. Mohan’s tips on infant care
Kids have less resistance to diseases unlike elders. These days, infants (0–1 year old), have to battle climatic changes and rising pollution. So, special precautions must be taken to protect their health. MetroMela spoke about these concerns to Dr. Mohan G. Madhavamangalam, (0484–2303283, 09446218787) managing director and consulting pediatrician of Mother and Child Hospital. Dr. Mohan was also the secretary of the Cochin branch of the Indian Academy of Pediatricians, for the last two years. Here are Dr. Mohan’s tips on caring for infants.
On feeding…
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Breast feeding is essential for infants and should not be substituted with any other food. After a normal delivery the infant can be given breast milk after half an hour. In the case of a caesarian birth, breast milk should be given after four hours.
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Avoid cow’s milk or pasteurized packet milk during the first six months.
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After six months, home made food like ragi can be introduced in the baby’s diet. Breast feeding should be continued.
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Initially, babies must be fed semi-solids once in a day, which can be gradually increased to twice a day.
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After the baby completes seven months, solid food can be started.
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At one year, a baby should be able to eat normal food.
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Rice, potatoes and dal (pulses) are ideal for babies. Avoid egg white and milk from animals up to the age of one and half years.
On immunization…
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Parents must be aware of immunization injections and drops for infants.
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Hepatitis B vaccine, BCG and polio drops must be given as soon as the baby is born.
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After four or six weeks BPG triple, OPV, Hepatitis B (second dose) and the first dose of HIB vaccine to prevent hemophilia must be given.
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Four weeks after these vaccinations, you can give the second dose of HIB, BPG and OPV.
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At six months, the third dose of Hepatitis B and the last dose of polio must be given.
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When the baby is nine months old, you can give the measles vaccine.
On cleanliness…
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Babies’ beds must always be clean and warm.
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The baby should be changed regularly and wet diapers removed.
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While handling babies, elders must ensure that their hands are clean.
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Adults suffering from any kind of illness should avoid handling babies.
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Avoid long distance travel with babies.
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Bathe babies with lukewarm water once a day.
Posted on: Mar 10, 2008
