By Dr. Bushra Adeel, Pediatrician, Advanced International Hospital Islamabad

Every other parent seems to be asking the same question these days:

“Why is my child falling sick again and again?”

You take your child to the doctor, get them treated, and within a few weeks— another cough, another fever, another round of missed school. It’s exhausting, worrying, and often confusing for parents. Is it the weather? A weak immune system? Poor diet? Or something more serious?

As a pediatrician, I see dozens of such cases every day. Let me walk you through what’s really going on, and what you—as a parent—can do to protect your child.

Seasonal Changes and Their Effects on Children

The transition between seasons, especially summer to monsoon or winter, often triggers a spike in childhood illnesses. Here’s why:

• Fluctuating temperatures weaken immune defenses
• Humidity and dampness encourage bacterial and viral growth
• Closed indoor environments (like classrooms and play areas) increase transmission
• Pollution and allergens in the air during changing seasons worsen breathing issues like asthma

Children are more sensitive to environmental changes than adults. Even small shifts can cause viral infections, allergies, or flare-ups of existing conditions.

Rise in Viral Infections: The Real Culprit

This season has seen a significant surge in viral infections, especially among children. These include:

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) – causes cold-like symptoms but can lead to bronchiolitis in babies
• Influenza (Flu) – high fever, body aches, cough, and fatigue
• Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) – common in younger children, with mouth ulcers and rashes
• COVID-19 and newer sub-variants – still circulating, especially in schools
• Adenoviruses – linked to prolonged fevers, sore throats, and conjunctivitis

Many of these viruses are highly contagious, especially in schools or daycare settings. Children often pick up infections from each other and bring them home.

 Why Children Are More Vulnerable

Several factors make children more prone to falling sick repeatedly:

1.   Developing Immune Systems

Infants and toddlers have not built strong immunity yet. Each exposure helps develop it, but it also means frequent infections in the early years.

2.   Poor Hygiene Practices

Young kids touch everything, share toys, and often forget to wash hands—making it easy for germs to spread.

3.   Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of vitamins like A, C, and D or minerals like zinc can reduce a child’s resistance to infections.

4.   Lack of Timely Vaccinations

Incomplete or delayed vaccines lower protection against diseases like measles, flu, and pneumonia. 

When Should You Be Concerned?

While mild colds or stomach bugs are common, frequent or severe illness may signal something more serious, such as:

• Allergies or asthma
• Tonsillitis or adenoid issues Chronic sinus infections
• Immune system disorders (in rare cases)

Consult your pediatrician if:

• Your child is sick more than 6–8 times a year with severe symptoms
• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• There’s weight loss, persistent fatigue, or poor appetite
• Infections are accompanied by rashes, wheezing, or dehydration

Dr. Bushra Adeel’s Tips to Keep Your Child Healthy This Season

Here’s what I recommend to all parents visiting my clinic:

Boost Immunity Naturally

• Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats
• Include immunity boosters like citrus fruits, eggs, yogurt, and leafy greens
• Encourage adequate sleep and daily physical activity

Maintain Good Hygiene

• Teach handwashing before meals and after play
• Clean toys regularly and avoid overcrowded areas during outbreaks
• Use masks in public or crowded places if your child has a cold

Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations

• Seasonal flu shots are highly recommended
• Complete the EPI immunization schedule and consider booster shots if needed

Hydrate and Monitor Air Quality

• Offer clean drinking water throughout the day
• Use air purifiers or keep indoor plants in homes near polluted areas

Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

• Mild colds don’t always need antibiotics—but wheezing, high fevers, or lethargy do
• Early treatment can prevent complications like pneumonia or ear infections

When to Visit the Hospital

Sometimes, home care isn’t enough. Seek hospital care if:

• Your child is breathing fast or has chest in drawing
• They are vomiting everything or refusing fluids There’s no improvement after 3 days of illness
• You see signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, no urine in 8 hours)

At Advanced International Hospital Islamabad, we have pediatric emergency services and diagnostic tools to catch infections early and treat them effectively.

 Final Thoughts

Children falling sick during seasonal changes is common—but it shouldn’t be ignored. Timely medical care, preventive steps, and proper nutrition can make a world of difference.

Book an Appointment with Dr. Bushra Adeel

Pediatrician & Child Specialist

Advanced International Hospital, G-8 Markaz, Islamabad