The Prevention of Children Infection
(Abstract of Dr. Alfred Tam's Talk)

There are many causes leading to children infection, the common ones are: The immune system is not yet develop and as mature as adult, crowded population, polluted air and atmosphere, and children are too early to start schooling. External biological source such as virus, bacteria and parasites are the origin of infection. The vulnerable contact groups are infants and toddlers, patients with chronic diseases and old age seniors. They can catch the infection through a certain time, place and condition.

The immune system is developed and body resistance is built by neutrocytes, T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes and gamma-globulin through the contact of virus. Therefore, infection is in some way good to the development and maturity of our immune system, moreover, it helps to reduce allergy and promote body growth.

Vaccination is an effective way to prevent children infection, HK government has a comprehensive vaccination programme for children from newborn to 12 years old. However, private hospitals and clinics provide even more options for the public to choose.

Below are some examples:
Diphtheria, Pertussis & Tetanus (DTP) vs DTaP, the side effect of the traditional Pertussis is relatively higher, the new acellular type (aP) has less side effect and the immunity level is relatively higher too. But the old type is much cheaper. In USA, children up to 5 years old still consume DTaP.

Haemophilus Influezae B (HIB) is a mandatory vaccine in most of the western countries like USA, Canada, etc. The immunity is high and side effect is minimal, the prevalence is not so common in HK and China but it is still advisable to have such protection.

Oral type Polio has been widely used for many years, with highly effective protection. However, injection polio serves the same good response and relatively less side effect but much higher cost.

Basically, Chicken Pox and Hepatitis A are scientifically proofed effective, only that the costs are high and children over one year old are safe for the vaccinations.

Flu vaccine is proofed over 85% of effectiveness for one year. Every year the World Health Organization (WHO) will announce the epidemic trend of flu for precaution, so that the particular vaccine can be commonly used. Children under 8 years old need to have a course of two injections in separate months.

Besides vaccination, the following foods can help building up our body resistance:
Breast milk, anti-oxidants substances like Vitamin B, C, E,Carotene, anti-oxidants electrolytes such as Se, Zn, Cu, etc. Purified water, good quality protein, fibrous vegetables and fruits and Omega 3 fatty acids like fish oil.

Personal hygiene precaution and protection should be maintained like avoiding second hand smoking, get sufficient rest especially when you are sick, wear facial mask if having coughs, go for sick consultation for early treatment. Frequent hand washing and careful handling of personal discharge are necessary. Avoid sharing your food and utensils with others.

To conclude the ways for prevention:
Get ready for vaccinations such as Flu vaccine, do more exercises, choose the appropriate high quality food as mentioned, and maintain sufficient and proper personal hygiene.

Source from: Dr. Alfred Tam¡-8¦-0s Health Talk on 10-6-2003ct/no.33/17.6.03