Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Child Health and Diseases Specialist Nermin Ankay MD. warned families about the most common health problems during summer including sunburn, diarrhea and insect bites. Nermin Ankay MD. suggested that children should be kept out of direct sunlight between 11:00 and 16:00 when the sun’s rays are the most intense to prevent sunburns. Ankay also reminded that sunglasses, hats, sun screens with a minimum SPF of 30 and umbrellas can help to protect against damage caused by the sun.

How to treat sunburn, sunstroke, diarrhea and insect bites?
Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Child Health and Diseases Specialist Nermin Ankay MD.  explained that children exposed to the heat especially in the afternoon, may experience the following symptoms; fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and even loss of consciousness. Nermin Ankay said that in minor incidents of sunstroke simple intervention methods involve lukewarm shower and increased fluid intake however underlined that in severe cases of sunstroke, the patient should be taken to a hospital.

Ankay stated that parents should prefer thin and light coloured clothing, and also they should encourage their child to consume more water. Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Child Health and Diseases Specialist Nermin Ankay MD.  gave the following information about diarrhea and insect bites; ‘Increase in temperatures leads to microbial growth and may result in food spoilage.  Mild  diarrhea during summer caused by viruses can be treated in 1-2 days with balanced diet and increased fluid intake without medical treatment.  However, if the child experiences diarrhea, accompanied by fatigue, fever, vomiting, loss of appetite and a bloody diarrhea, an expert should be consulted immediately.  To protect yourself from diarrhea, wash raw fruits and vegetables, pay attention to hand hygiene.  Children should not consume water from an unknown source and if they have to, it should be boiled. Poisonous insect, spider or snake bites should be treated immediately at emergency services. For insect bites which do not cause any allergic reaction wash the area of the bite with soap and water. Medication against itching could be used. In case of severe edema and redness, you should consult a doctor.  Bee stings can cause very serious problems or even vital risks, to avoid these kinds of risks wash the area with soap and plenty of cold water. If extreme swelling and redness occurs on the body, you should go to a hospital immediately. For protection against insect infestations, bed nets can be used to keep out mosquitos away from babies and also you can dress your baby in light layers that cover his arms and legs. If you are spending time outdoors do not prefer sandals or open-toed shoes. “