Hello there dear readers and a very warm welcome to this edition of Tiny Tots Corner. Once again, our mailbag was overflowing with the cutest little faces, making it a real challenge for our judges to choose just three winners, as each entry was so special. This month’s stars are two cute little boys and a beautiful little girl whole stole our judge’s hearts with their adorable charm. If you fancy your tiny tot as one of our next winners, send us those wonderful pics of your little cherubs…who knows, your tot could be featured in our next edition. Until then keep those cameras clicking! There are a few rules, as set out in the blue “Competition Rules” box below.
Competition Rules
- The Editor’s decision is final.
- This competition is open to all babies, between the ages of six and 24 months, who live in the Laudium Sun main distribution area.
- Closing date: Wednesday, September 17.
- Entries must include a recent, clear photo of your baby, accompanied by the full name and age of infant, and also parents’ names and addresses…as well as contact numbers.
- All entries must be hand-delivered to the Laudium Sun office in Laudium or e-mailed to: info@laudiumsun.co.za or posted to: PO Box 786, Pretoria, 0001, and are to reach us before the closing date.
Caring for your premature baby at home
How Can I Protect My Baby From Infections?
Because their immune systems are still developing, preemies are at risk for infections. Here are some ways to keep your baby safe:
- Limit outings. Limit trips outside the home to medical visits for the first several weeks, especially during the winter months. Because doctors’ offices commonly have many kids with viral infections, try scheduling your visit for first thing in the morning or ask to wait in an exam room instead of the main waiting area.
- Avoid public places and some visitors. Most doctors recommend not visiting public places with preemies. And limit visitors to your home: anyone who is ill should not visit, nobody should smoke in your home, and all visitors should wash their hands before touching your baby. Talk to your doctor about specific recommendations — some family visits may need to be postponed until your little one’s immune system gets stronger.
- Keep your baby up to date on vaccines, as recommended by the pediatrician.
- Ask about a shot to prevent RSV. RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common viral infection that’s often mistaken for a cold or the flu. RSV causes few problems in adults and older kids, but in preemies it can lead to severe illness or breathing problems. It is now recommended that pregnant women get an RSV vaccine at 32–36 weeks of their pregnancy if the baby will be born during RSV season. This can protect the newborn from severe RSV illness. If the mother did not get this vaccine, or if the baby was born less than 2 weeks after she did, doctors can give the baby a new type of shot that contains antibodies against RSV as another way to protect the baby from RSV. Babies younger than 8 months old get this shot during or right before RSV season. Preemies who go home from the hospital at other times of the year also may need the shot when winter arrives. Preemies and other children at higher risk for getting very sick from an RSV infection can get a second shot when they enter their second RSV season, up to 19 months of age.
Should I Be Concerned About My Baby’s Breathing?
Premature infants commonly have periods of apnea, or pauses in breathing. These usually end by the time most preemies go home. Babies won’t be sent home if apnea causes a slow heart rate or a change in color. In some cases, if the doctor thinks it’s needed, a baby goes home from the NICU with an apnea monitor. If your baby needs a monitor, anyone who will be alone with your infant at home should get trained to use it and know how to do infant CPR.
-Sourced
*This article is a guideline only. If in any doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.