Health and Me

Ishita Roy

How To Prevent Contagious Illness In Kids?

how to prevent sickness in your child?

Kids love going around places, playing, and exploring new things. While all of this is fun, it can expose them to diseases. When they come from school, they are exposed to various germs through air and transmission or direct contact. They also touch surfaces a lot, then their face, then their mouths. This makes it easy for illness to spread. While it is impossible to prevent illness completely, there could be several measures that can reduce the risk and support recovery.

Vaccination is a critical step in preventing severe illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend following an established vaccine schedule. Vaccines protect against life-threatening infections, including those that disproportionately affect infants and young children.

While no vaccine can prevent one from common cold, good hygiene practices can significantly reduce germ transmission. Parents must therefore encourage their children to wash their hands after touching toys, hard surfaces, and other people. What is more important is proper hand hygiene, as handwashing with soap and water is the most effective way to eliminate germs.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/this-spring-make-hand-hygiene-a-priority-says-expert-article-151294978" data-type="tilCustomLink">This Spring, Make Hand Hygiene A Priority, Says Expert</a></strong>

<h4>The Hygiene Hypothesis: Does Exposure to Germs Strengthen Immunity?</h4>

There are several research that suggests that early exposure to germs may help develop a child’s immune system, a concept known as the "hygiene hypothesis." However, many immunologists argue against this theory, noting that children naturally encounter enough germs to build immunity without unnecessary exposure to unsanitary conditions. A balanced approach ensures children develop a strong immune response without increased risk of illness.

<h4>Cleaning and Sanitizing Children’s Belongings</h4>

Regular cleaning of toys, school supplies, and frequently touched objects is essential. Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help:

<ul><li>Cleaning removes visible dirt and debris.</li><li>Sanitizing reduces germs to safer levels.</li><li>Disinfecting kills germs completely, offering the highest level of protection.</li></ul>

It is important to read product labels carefully, use child-safe cleaning products, and rinse toys thoroughly after disinfection, especially those that go into a child’s mouth.

<h4>Choosing Effective Sanitizing Products</h4>

To minimize germ exposure, parents should clean objects with soap and water first and then use a sanitizer for everyday items. Disinfectants, which are stronger, should be used on objects that a sick person has touched. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of approved sanitizers and disinfectants that effectively kill germs.

<h4>Encouraging Good Hygiene Without Causing Anxiety</h4>

Teaching children proper hygiene without creating fear is essential. Make handwashing engaging by incorporating songs or counting games. Explaining the benefits of hygiene in a positive way helps children understand that washing hands protects them and others. Parents can reinforce these habits by leading by example.

<h4>Boosting Immunity Through Nutrition</h4>

A strong immune system helps children fight infections more effectively. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in immune support. A balanced diet should include:

<ul><li>Proteins</li><li>Vegetables</li><li>Fruits</li><li>Healthy fats</li><li>Carbohydrates</li><li>Adequate hydration</li></ul>

Multivitamins are generally unnecessary for well-nourished children, but if supplements are used, they should be free of added sugars and taken under supervision to prevent choking hazards.

Proper respiratory hygiene reduces the spread of illness. Parents should model behaviors such as covering their mouths with an elbow when coughing or sneezing. Using tissues and disposing of them immediately is also a good practice. Reinforcing these habits through positive encouragement makes children more likely to adopt them.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

parenting

parenting advice

parenting tips

illness in kids

protect kids from getting ill

Kolkata Is Choking, The Reason Is Secondary Pollutants; Know What Are They

Health On Your Fingertips - Your Fingers Can Reveal How Much Endurance You Have

Could Anti-Ageing Drugs Be Shortening Your Life Span?

Parenting

Dishes With Fermented Foods To Eat For Your Gut Health

Yoga Poses That Stimulate Good Bowel Health

Weekend Warrior Exercises For Full Body Movement

Weekend Meal Prep Ideas That Will Last You A Weekend

Easy Homemade Healthy Dishes For Long Afternoons

Silent Walking: Mental Health Booster That Keeps You Fit

Dumbbell Exercises You Can Do At Home

These Foods Are Keeping You Awake At Night

Ways to Manage Sugar Cravings

Your Body Doesn’t Want You To Lose Weight – Here's It Resists

High-Protein No Cook Dishes You Should Try

Yoga Poses That Aid In Digestion

Low Calorie Dinner Options For Weight Loss

Cardiac Arrest Vs. Heart Attack: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

High Protein Low-Carb Snacks To Have On The Go

Knee Exercises Desk Workers Should Do For Joint Health

Why Do I Feel Sleepy During The Day?

High Protein Early Morning Meals To Keep You Full Till Lunch

International Yoga Day 2025: Benefits of Doing Tadasana Every Morning

High-Carb Foods That Are Really Healthy

Dementia Vs Alzheimer’s: Difference Explained Under 60 Seconds

Healthy Staple Foods To Make Eating Healthy Easier

Are You Dealing With Abandonment Issues? Signs And Risk Factors

Mid-Work Healthy Snacks You Can Eat Throughout The Day

Common Mistakes You May Be Making In The Gym

Strengthen Your Legs Muscles With These Exercises

Beat Anxiety With Books: How Reading Helps With Stress

Ghee For Health: Ayurvedic Health Benefits Of Clarified Butter

Common Mistakes You Are Making While Walking

Exercises You Should Do At Home When You Skip Gym

Common Mistakes You May Be Making While Working Out

Ways You Are Runing Your Weight Loss Journey

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

You Are Hurting Your Gut Health With These Habits

Avoid The Heat With These Indoor Exercises

Stay Sharp! Activities That Keep Cognitive Diseases At Bay

Protect Your Cardiovascular Health With These Heart Healthy Foods

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Kids love going around places, playing, and exploring new things. While all of this is fun, it can expose them to diseases. When they come from school, they are exposed to various germs through air and transmission or direct contact. They also touch surfaces a lot, then their face, then their mouths. This makes it easy for illness to spread. While it is impossible to prevent illness completely, there could be several measures that can reduce the risk and support recovery.VaccinationVaccination is a critical step in preventing severe illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend following an established vaccine schedule. Vaccines protect against life-threatening infections, including those that disproportionately affect infants and young children.Good HygieneWhile no vaccine can prevent one from common cold, good hygiene practices can significantly reduce germ transmission. Parents must therefore encourage their children to wash their hands after touching toys, hard surfaces, and other people. What is more important is proper hand hygiene, as handwashing with soap and water is the most effective way to eliminate germs.ALSO READ: This Spring, Make Hand Hygiene A Priority, Says ExpertThe Hygiene Hypothesis: Does Exposure to Germs Strengthen Immunity?There are several research that suggests that early exposure to germs may help develop a child’s immune system, a concept known as the "hygiene hypothesis." However, many immunologists argue against this theory, noting that children naturally encounter enough germs to build immunity without unnecessary exposure to unsanitary conditions. A balanced approach ensures children develop a strong immune response without increased risk of illness.Cleaning and Sanitizing Children’s BelongingsRegular cleaning of toys, school supplies, and frequently touched objects is essential. Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help:Cleaning removes visible dirt and debris.Sanitizing reduces germs to safer levels.Disinfecting kills germs completely, offering the highest level of protection.It is important to read product labels carefully, use child-safe cleaning products, and rinse toys thoroughly after disinfection, especially those that go into a child’s mouth.Choosing Effective Sanitizing ProductsTo minimize germ exposure, parents should clean objects with soap and water first and then use a sanitizer for everyday items. Disinfectants, which are stronger, should be used on objects that a sick person has touched. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of approved sanitizers and disinfectants that effectively kill germs.Encouraging Good Hygiene Without Causing AnxietyTeaching children proper hygiene without creating fear is essential. Make handwashing engaging by incorporating songs or counting games. Explaining the benefits of hygiene in a positive way helps children understand that washing hands protects them and others. Parents can reinforce these habits by leading by example.Boosting Immunity Through NutritionA strong immune system helps children fight infections more effectively. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in immune support. A balanced diet should include:ProteinsVegetablesFruitsHealthy fatsCarbohydratesAdequate hydrationMultivitamins are generally unnecessary for well-nourished children, but if supplements are used, they should be free of added sugars and taken under supervision to prevent choking hazards.Teaching Respiratory EtiquetteProper respiratory hygiene reduces the spread of illness. Parents should model behaviors such as covering their mouths with an elbow when coughing or sneezing. Using tissues and disposing of them immediately is also a good practice. Reinforcing these habits through positive encouragement makes children more likely to adopt them.

how to prevent contagious illness in kids?

Aarushi Bhadury

Allergic Reactions Lead To Unnecessary Hospitalizations In Kids – How Can Parents Help Prevent This?

Allergic Reactions Lead to Unnecessary Hospitalizations In Kids

Health & Wellness

Can A Sudden Drop In Blood Pressure Lead To Death?

can a sudden drop in blood pressure lead to death?

At 15, This Girl Began Walking Like A 90-Year-Old Due To A Spine Condition That Affects 1 In 10 Kids

at 13, this girl began walking like a 90-year-old due to a spine condition that affects 1 in 10 kids

kolkata is choking, the reason is secondary pollutants; know what are they

Physical Manifestation Of Mental Health Problems - How Your Body Tries To Tell You It Needs Help

physical manifestation of mental health problems - how your body tries to tell you it needs help

<span>Allergic reactions</span> are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone. Many people ingest things they do not know they are allergic to or accidentally eat something that is cross contaminated with <span>allergens</span>. The reaction one gets to coming in contact with their allergens depends on how <span>severe their allergies</span> are. 

<span>Allergic reactions in kids</span> happen more often than we know, and many of these kids end up hospitalized. However, most of these could be avoided according to new research.

About 17% of children are currently staying overnight in the hospital after a serious allergic reaction to food, medicine, or insect bites. However, this study, published in The Lancet, indicates that most of these long stays might not be needed. 

Researchers found that a high percentage of children, 95%, who were treated with a common allergy medication, could safely go home within just two hours. This number goes up to 98% if they are watched for four hours. 

One of the researchers, a children's emergency specialist, noted that most patients are likely observed for too long. He explained that for families, this could mean the difference between leaving the hospital at 11 p.m. versus 1 a.m. or 3 a.m.

An allergy happens when your body's defense system, called the immune system, mistakenly thinks something is harmful and reacts too strongly to it. The problems you feel because of this reaction are called an allergic reaction. The things that cause these reactions are known as allergens. Allergens can enter your body in several ways, leading to an allergic reaction

<h2>How Allergies Are Affecting More And More Kids?</h2>

While most kids get better quickly with the first dose of medicine, about 5% might have their symptoms return later, even after the initial treatment. 

For this study, researchers looked at information from over 5,600 emergency room visits at many hospitals in the U.S. and Canada where allergic reactions were treated with the common allergy medication. Most of these reactions (about 90%) were caused by foods like peanuts, eggs, milk, and shellfish. Medicines caused about 6% of reactions, and insect stings caused 3%. 

The study showed that only about 5% of children needed a second dose of medicine within two hours of their first shot, and this dropped to just 2% after four hours. Importantly, most children who were admitted to the hospital never needed a second dose or intensive care.

Keeping kids in the hospital longer than needed causes problems. As one allergy expert pointed out, families might avoid or delay going to the emergency room because they don't want to spend hours waiting. Such delays can be dangerous. Allowing patients to go home sooner could encourage them to get help when they need it. 

Also, holding kids in the hospital unnecessarily uses up important hospital resources. A senior researcher explained that children's emergency departments can get very busy, especially during winter. Making sure patients move through efficiently helps the hospital care for as many people as possible. He added that because this study was so large, its results can give doctors confidence that sending children home in less than two hours, if they show no concerning symptoms, will be safe for most kids. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma &amp; Immunology, allergies and asthma can be prevented with the correct steps. 

<h2>How Parents Can Help Prevent Allergies In Children?</h2>

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma &amp; Immunology, allergies and asthma can be prevented with the correct steps.

Food allergies range from mild to severe, often triggered by peanuts, milk, and eggs. Babies are at higher risk if family members have allergies or if the baby already has eczema.

<strong>Diet During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding</strong>

Don't avoid common allergens while pregnant or breastfeeding for allergy prevention; research shows little benefit. Breast milk is ideal, strengthening immunity and reducing allergy risk. If needed, use special hypoallergenic formulas.

Start single-ingredient baby foods (fruits, veggies, cereals) at 4-6 months, one at a time. Importantly, introduce common allergens like egg and peanuts during this period. Delaying might increase allergy risk.

<strong>When to See a Specialist</strong>

Consult an allergist if your baby has allergic reactions, like bad eczema, or if a sibling has a peanut allergy. They'll provide expert guidance and a personalized plan.

<h4>Environmental Allergies and Asthma</h4>

Reduce dust mite exposure early, especially for high-risk children, to delay or prevent symptoms. Use allergen-proof covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, and keep humidity low. Remove carpets if possible.

The link between early animal exposure and allergies is complex. Newer research suggests early exposure to cats and dogs might actually protect children. Discuss this with your doctor.

Crucially, shield children from tobacco smoke before and after birth. Smoking during pregnancy increases infant wheezing. Secondhand smoke boosts asthma risk and other breathing problems.

<strong>Benefits of Breastfeeding</strong>

Breastfeeding for at least 4-6 months strengthens a child's immune system. This helps fight lung infections that trigger asthma, potentially reducing long-term asthma risk.

Allergic Reactions and Hospitalizations

allergens

Allergic Reactions

Allergic Reactions in kids

What Are allergies

severe their allergies

Allergic reactions are a common occurrence and can happen to anyone. Many people ingest things they do not know they are allergic to or accidentally eat something that is cross contaminated with allergens. The reaction one gets to coming in contact with their allergens depends on how severe their allergies are. Allergic reactions in kids happen more often than we know, and many of these kids end up hospitalized. However, most of these could be avoided according to new research.About 17% of children are currently staying overnight in the hospital after a serious allergic reaction to food, medicine, or insect bites. However, this study, published in The Lancet, indicates that most of these long stays might not be needed. Researchers found that a high percentage of children, 95%, who were treated with a common allergy medication, could safely go home within just two hours. This number goes up to 98% if they are watched for four hours. One of the researchers, a children's emergency specialist, noted that most patients are likely observed for too long. He explained that for families, this could mean the difference between leaving the hospital at 11 p.m. versus 1 a.m. or 3 a.m.An allergy happens when your body's defense system, called the immune system, mistakenly thinks something is harmful and reacts too strongly to it. The problems you feel because of this reaction are called an allergic reaction. The things that cause these reactions are known as allergens. Allergens can enter your body in several ways, leading to an allergic reactionHow Allergies Are Affecting More And More Kids?While most kids get better quickly with the first dose of medicine, about 5% might have their symptoms return later, even after the initial treatment. For this study, researchers looked at information from over 5,600 emergency room visits at many hospitals in the U.S. and Canada where allergic reactions were treated with the common allergy medication. Most of these reactions (about 90%) were caused by foods like peanuts, eggs, milk, and shellfish. Medicines caused about 6% of reactions, and insect stings caused 3%. The study showed that only about 5% of children needed a second dose of medicine within two hours of their first shot, and this dropped to just 2% after four hours. Importantly, most children who were admitted to the hospital never needed a second dose or intensive care.Keeping kids in the hospital longer than needed causes problems. As one allergy expert pointed out, families might avoid or delay going to the emergency room because they don't want to spend hours waiting. Such delays can be dangerous. Allowing patients to go home sooner could encourage them to get help when they need it. Also, holding kids in the hospital unnecessarily uses up important hospital resources. A senior researcher explained that children's emergency departments can get very busy, especially during winter. Making sure patients move through efficiently helps the hospital care for as many people as possible. He added that because this study was so large, its results can give doctors confidence that sending children home in less than two hours, if they show no concerning symptoms, will be safe for most kids. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergies and asthma can be prevented with the correct steps. How Parents Can Help Prevent Allergies In Children?According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergies and asthma can be prevented with the correct steps. Preventing Food AllergiesUnderstanding the RiskFood allergies range from mild to severe, often triggered by peanuts, milk, and eggs. Babies are at higher risk if family members have allergies or if the baby already has eczema.Diet During Pregnancy and BreastfeedingDon't avoid common allergens while pregnant or breastfeeding for allergy prevention; research shows little benefit. Breast milk is ideal, strengthening immunity and reducing allergy risk. If needed, use special hypoallergenic formulas.Introducing Solid FoodsStart single-ingredient baby foods (fruits, veggies, cereals) at 4-6 months, one at a time. Importantly, introduce common allergens like egg and peanuts during this period. Delaying might increase allergy risk.When to See a SpecialistConsult an allergist if your baby has allergic reactions, like bad eczema, or if a sibling has a peanut allergy. They'll provide expert guidance and a personalized plan.Environmental Allergies and AsthmaDust MitesReduce dust mite exposure early, especially for high-risk children, to delay or prevent symptoms. Use allergen-proof covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, and keep humidity low. Remove carpets if possible.Pets and Other AnimalsThe link between early animal exposure and allergies is complex. Newer research suggests early exposure to cats and dogs might actually protect children. Discuss this with your doctor.Tobacco SmokeCrucially, shield children from tobacco smoke before and after birth. Smoking during pregnancy increases infant wheezing. Secondhand smoke boosts asthma risk and other breathing problems.Benefits of BreastfeedingBreastfeeding for at least 4-6 months strengthens a child's immune system. This helps fight lung infections that trigger asthma, potentially reducing long-term asthma risk.

allergic reactions lead to unnecessary hospitalizations in kids – could these be avoided?

Teen Stress Is A Threat To Their Immune System - Here's What Can Help

Teen Stress Is A Threat To Their Immune System

Do You Feel Drained No Matter How Much You Sleep And Rest?

do you feel drained no matter how much you sleep and rest?

Better Skin Health Does Mean Better Mental Health - Researchers Find A Positive Skin-Brain Axis Link

better skin health does mean better mental health - researchers find a positive skin-brain axis link

You Only Need These Many Minutes Of Walking To Reduce Your Lower Back Pain

rising lower back-pain risk see improvement after these many minutes of walking

You can't completely shield your teen from stress, and a little bit can even be good for them. However, too much stress might make them more likely to get sick. For instance, teens feeling overloaded due to midterms, college applications, or other school pressures could become more vulnerable to catching viruses. This is because stress genuinely affects our bodies, making us more prone to illness, especially during winter when colds and flu spread easily in schools.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Stress Weakens the Immune System</span> </h2>

According to a 2024 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine ongoing stress directly hits a teen's immune system, which is their body's way of fighting off sickness. When stress hormones are released, they can damage the immune system. Long-term stress can even lower the number of white blood cells that fight infections. If teens are always busy, not sleeping enough, and ignoring their own self-care, it sets them up perfectly to get sick. Stress also causes swelling in the body, which further weakens the immune system. During very stressful times like exams, it's really important to encourage teens to slow down and take care of their body and mind

<h2>Tips to Help Teens Stay Healthy and Less Stressed </h2>

Here are some simple ways to help your teen stay healthy, both mentally and physically: 

Most teens don't sleep enough; they often get only about 7 hours, but they need much more, especially when stressed. Aim for up to 10 hours of sleep a night during stressful times. Good sleep helps their body and mind recharge, boosts their immune system, helps them manage emotions, and improves their thinking. Help them set a sleep schedule, put away phones at least two hours before bed, keep their room dark and cool, and try relaxing activities before sleep. 

Help your teen discover ways to calm down and lower stress. This could be things like walking outside in nature, making a healthy meal, writing in a journal, trying simple breathing exercises, or using a meditation app. Teens who regularly practice mindful exercises to reduce stress often feel much less stressed overall. 

Many teens spend hours every day on phones and other devices outside of school. Too much screen time can actually make stress worse, not better. Encourage your teen to "unplug" by taking breaks from their devices. Suggest setting time limits for apps and social media. 

If your teen has a stressful event coming up, help them prepare. Suggest a study schedule with breaks, and work together to make a plan. Getting organized can really help. Encourage them to use a planner or calendar, or help them make "to-do" lists, which makes managing deadlines easier. 

While sugary snacks and caffeine might seem helpful during study sessions, they usually do more harm than good. Keep healthy snacks like protein bars, nuts, and fruit around. Providing healthy, comforting meals can also help lower stress. And don't forget to remind them to drink plenty of water, as not drinking enough can affect their body and even make them feel more anxious. 

Stress and anxiety can cause physical symptoms that feel a lot like being sick, such as headaches, stomach aches, and muscle pain. Often, teens might "feel" sick when they are actually just anxious. It's tough to measure stress because what causes it and how much it affects someone is different for everyone. It's important to talk to your teen about how they're feeling. If they have physical symptoms, take them to a doctor to make sure they aren't actually sick with the flu or another virus. 

If your teen does get sick during a stressful time, help them deal with it so it doesn't add more stress. Let them know it's okay to take breaks for their health, and help them figure out how to catch up on any schoolwork. Teaching teens to take care of themselves is really important. 

Teen Stress damages Immune system

Stress Weakens the Immune System

does stress make you sick

can stress cause you fever

Teen stress tips

Stress free teen tips

You can't completely shield your teen from stress, and a little bit can even be good for them. However, too much stress might make them more likely to get sick. For instance, teens feeling overloaded due to midterms, college applications, or other school pressures could become more vulnerable to catching viruses. This is because stress genuinely affects our bodies, making us more prone to illness, especially during winter when colds and flu spread easily in schools. Stress Weakens the Immune System According to a 2024 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine ongoing stress directly hits a teen's immune system, which is their body's way of fighting off sickness. When stress hormones are released, they can damage the immune system. Long-term stress can even lower the number of white blood cells that fight infections. If teens are always busy, not sleeping enough, and ignoring their own self-care, it sets them up perfectly to get sick. Stress also causes swelling in the body, which further weakens the immune system. During very stressful times like exams, it's really important to encourage teens to slow down and take care of their body and mind Tips to Help Teens Stay Healthy and Less Stressed Here are some simple ways to help your teen stay healthy, both mentally and physically: Get Enough Sleep Most teens don't sleep enough; they often get only about 7 hours, but they need much more, especially when stressed. Aim for up to 10 hours of sleep a night during stressful times. Good sleep helps their body and mind recharge, boosts their immune system, helps them manage emotions, and improves their thinking. Help them set a sleep schedule, put away phones at least two hours before bed, keep their room dark and cool, and try relaxing activities before sleep. Find Ways to Cope Help your teen discover ways to calm down and lower stress. This could be things like walking outside in nature, making a healthy meal, writing in a journal, trying simple breathing exercises, or using a meditation app. Teens who regularly practice mindful exercises to reduce stress often feel much less stressed overall. Take Breaks from Tech Many teens spend hours every day on phones and other devices outside of school. Too much screen time can actually make stress worse, not better. Encourage your teen to "unplug" by taking breaks from their devices. Suggest setting time limits for apps and social media. Plan Ahead If your teen has a stressful event coming up, help them prepare. Suggest a study schedule with breaks, and work together to make a plan. Getting organized can really help. Encourage them to use a planner or calendar, or help them make "to-do" lists, which makes managing deadlines easier. Eat Well and Drink Water While sugary snacks and caffeine might seem helpful during study sessions, they usually do more harm than good. Keep healthy snacks like protein bars, nuts, and fruit around. Providing healthy, comforting meals can also help lower stress. And don't forget to remind them to drink plenty of water, as not drinking enough can affect their body and even make them feel more anxious. Is It Sickness or Just Stress? Stress and anxiety can cause physical symptoms that feel a lot like being sick, such as headaches, stomach aches, and muscle pain. Often, teens might "feel" sick when they are actually just anxious. It's tough to measure stress because what causes it and how much it affects someone is different for everyone. It's important to talk to your teen about how they're feeling. If they have physical symptoms, take them to a doctor to make sure they aren't actually sick with the flu or another virus. If your teen does get sick during a stressful time, help them deal with it so it doesn't add more stress. Let them know it's okay to take breaks for their health, and help them figure out how to catch up on any schoolwork. Teaching teens to take care of themselves is really important. 

teen stress is a threat to their immune system - here's what can help

With Less than 1% Survival Chance, The Baby Born At 21 Weeks Survives, Breaks World Record

National Doctor's Day: Why Is It Important To Observe A Day For Doctors?

national doctors day 2025 july 1 dr bidhan chandra roy india know why is it important to observe a day for doctors?

Health News

Scientists Find Over 20 New Bat Viruses In China, Warn Of “Critical Implications”

scientists find over 20 new bat viruses in china, warn of “critical implications”

A baby is considered fully developed and full-term at 39 weeks of gestation. A baby can be born anywhere between 37 and 42 weeks and can still be considered full-term. This period helps in baby's organ development like brain, lungs, and liver. It also reduces baby's health risks, promotes a better brain development and helps with other cognitive activities. 

However, under certain circumstances, premature babies are also born. However, when a baby is born at 24 weeks or later, the baby has chance to survival and this chance increases with each additional week of gestation. However, babies who are born before 24 weeks face a high risk of mortality and potential long-term health issues. 

A baby born before 22 weeks has a survival rate of 6%. So if a baby born in 21 weeks survives, it is no less than a miracle. 

This is the story of one such miracle that happened where a baby, who had less than 1% chance of survival is now thriving and has broken the world record. 

This is from the year 2020 when at 21 weeks, in Alabama, the most <span>premature baby</span> in the world, as per the Guinness World Records, was born.

Curtis Means and his twin sister, C'Asya Means, were born on July 5, 2020, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital. Delivered at just 21 weeks and 1 day of gestation—132 days premature—the twins faced overwhelming odds, with UAB estimating their chance of survival at less than 1%. According to Guinness World Records, they were born nearly 19 weeks early.

"Numbers show that babies born so young have little to no chances of survival," said Dr. Brian Sims, a professor of pediatrics at the UAB who was the on-call physician when the twins' mother, Michelle Butler. The doctor's statement is part of UAB's official statement. 

However, C'Asya did not respond to treatment and died the day after birth, but Curtis' heart rate and oxygen levels started to improve.

"We have never been able to bring a baby that young to the <span>neonatal intensive care unit</span>, so [Curtis] was literally the first of his kind," Sims told Guinness World Records. We were in uncharted territory." 

Curtis received constant medical care that helped him breathe. His body temperature was also regulated and other care, including enough nutrition intakes were maintained. It was in about three months, when the doctors were finally able to take him off a ventilator. 

Dr Colm Travers, an assistant professor in the Division of Neonatology said in a statement, "Curtis defied all scientific odds." Indeed he did. Age and birth weight are two of the most important factors in determining a newborn’s chances of survival, he explained. The odds are also higher if the baby is female, not part of a multiple birth, and if the mother received steroids before delivery to aid lung development—none of which applied in Curtis’s case. Yet, Curtis survived. 

At birth, Curtis weighed just 14.8 ounces (420 grams)—roughly one-seventh the weight of an average full-term newborn, according to Guinness World Records. Despite the odds, he grew stronger each day and was discharged from the hospital around nine months later, supported by medication, a feeding tube, and bottled oxygen.

After celebrating his first birthday, Curtis—affectionately nicknamed "Poodie" by his family—was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the most premature surviving baby.

Six months after his discharge, Curtis’ medical team gathered outside the University of Alabama at Birmingham hospital to surprise his mother with the Guinness World Record certificate. The previous record holder, Richard Hutchinson, had been born just a month earlier, on June 5, 2020, at 21 weeks and 2 days. 

premature baby survives breaks world record

premature baby

neonatal intensive care unit

tiniest baby

A baby is considered fully developed and full-term at 39 weeks of gestation. A baby can be born anywhere between 37 and 42 weeks and can still be considered full-term. This period helps in baby's organ development like brain, lungs, and liver. It also reduces baby's health risks, promotes a better brain development and helps with other cognitive activities. However, under certain circumstances, premature babies are also born. However, when a baby is born at 24 weeks or later, the baby has chance to survival and this chance increases with each additional week of gestation. However, babies who are born before 24 weeks face a high risk of mortality and potential long-term health issues. A baby born before 22 weeks has a survival rate of 6%. So if a baby born in 21 weeks survives, it is no less than a miracle. This is the story of one such miracle that happened where a baby, who had less than 1% chance of survival is now thriving and has broken the world record. "Defied All Scientific Odds"This is from the year 2020 when at 21 weeks, in Alabama, the most premature baby in the world, as per the Guinness World Records, was born.Curtis Means and his twin sister, C'Asya Means, were born on July 5, 2020, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital. Delivered at just 21 weeks and 1 day of gestation—132 days premature—the twins faced overwhelming odds, with UAB estimating their chance of survival at less than 1%. According to Guinness World Records, they were born nearly 19 weeks early."Numbers show that babies born so young have little to no chances of survival," said Dr. Brian Sims, a professor of pediatrics at the UAB who was the on-call physician when the twins' mother, Michelle Butler. The doctor's statement is part of UAB's official statement. However, C'Asya did not respond to treatment and died the day after birth, but Curtis' heart rate and oxygen levels started to improve."We have never been able to bring a baby that young to the neonatal intensive care unit, so [Curtis] was literally the first of his kind," Sims told Guinness World Records. We were in uncharted territory." Curtis received constant medical care that helped him breathe. His body temperature was also regulated and other care, including enough nutrition intakes were maintained. It was in about three months, when the doctors were finally able to take him off a ventilator. Dr Colm Travers, an assistant professor in the Division of Neonatology said in a statement, "Curtis defied all scientific odds." Indeed he did. Age and birth weight are two of the most important factors in determining a newborn’s chances of survival, he explained. The odds are also higher if the baby is female, not part of a multiple birth, and if the mother received steroids before delivery to aid lung development—none of which applied in Curtis’s case. Yet, Curtis survived. How The Baby SurvivedAt birth, Curtis weighed just 14.8 ounces (420 grams)—roughly one-seventh the weight of an average full-term newborn, according to Guinness World Records. Despite the odds, he grew stronger each day and was discharged from the hospital around nine months later, supported by medication, a feeding tube, and bottled oxygen.After celebrating his first birthday, Curtis—affectionately nicknamed "Poodie" by his family—was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the most premature surviving baby.Six months after his discharge, Curtis’ medical team gathered outside the University of Alabama at Birmingham hospital to surprise his mother with the Guinness World Record certificate. The previous record holder, Richard Hutchinson, had been born just a month earlier, on June 5, 2020, at 21 weeks and 2 days. 

with less than 1% survival chance, the baby born at 21 weeks survives, breaks world record

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.