Surviving a Pandemic with a Baby

These are indeed worrying times. Families have been advised to stock up and self isolate themselves to avoid spreading diseases. So far the authorities have not determined for how long. If all follow the said rules, then hopefully it will be sooner than we anticipate. But there is also the possibility that it will be longer. The good news is that the virus is not prevalent amongst babies unlike the older demographic. But it will affect them in other ways like accessing healthcare, baby goods and even child care for working parents. Babies, unfortunately require certain items that the family usually does not need on a regular basis.  From certain formulas to diapers to even baby foods eaten. Depending on the age of your babies, the requirements are different and how you prepare. Here are some things to take seriously when surviving a pandemic with your baby.

1Hygiene. Obviously proper hygiene is an important concern of everyone’s these days. With babies and toddlers whose hands are always either in their mouths or on their faces, you will have to be very proactive about keeping your babies spaces and environment clean and germ free.

2Getting medical care. Unless its an emergency, hold off on taking your child to the doctors at every little spot or sleepless night. Of course, be in touch with the required medical profession either through the phone or other virtual modes offered. Taking your baby to public places should not be a option at this point.

3Daycare. Many parents use daycare as a necessity to get on with their working lives. If daycare is the only childcare option you have at this point, remember to practice good hygiene from the get go so as to stop the spread of diseases quickly. Follow the daycare rules of hygiene without any exception, when everyone does their bit, it saves all as a community.

4Stock up on necessities. I am glad to say that our island has not gone into uber panic mode when stocking up on supplies. Also the shops have been excellent in replenishing items as soon as they run out. Therefore do not be tempted to buy all the diapers or all the formula, buy for two months not six. Give other parents options to support their babies as well. 

5Trying other options. This might be a great time to get your baby on natural whole cereals, rather then easy and quick ones in boxes. Natural food supplies will always be there in abundance. Try move into cloth nappies rather than diapers, saves money and saves the planet.

I know many parents rely on their elders to provide childcare, in these times it is important to understand that this disease affects the elders the worst. Taking that into consideration it might be wise to stop asking your parents to help out for a while, for the benefit of their health

6Vaccinations. Routine vaccinations are the safest way to keep your baby protected from any disease. It goes without saying to keep those up to date. Infected parent or family member. If you get infected and are still breast feeding your baby, it has been medically found that breast milk does not carry the disease. Though use proper protection like face masks etc when around your baby. Even if a family member has a cold and even the virus, then it would be prudent at this time to use faces masks even within your own family environment.

7Watch the elders. I know many parents rely on their elders to provide childcare, in these times it is important to understand that this disease affects the elders the worst. Taking that into consideration it might be wise to stop asking your parents to help out for a while, for the benefit of their health.

8Daily staff. If you have daily help coming into your homes, you will have set up a strict hygiene protocol for them. Even before they enter the kitchens, houses etc make use they thoroughly wash hands etc. Use of masks, gloves etc can also be adopted till this period passes. Having staff going in and out of your house is still going to offer some risk.

Trying to fight something that you cannot see is of course scary, daunting and quite easily panic-educing. Therefore staying calm at times like this is very very important. We can achieve more and solve the problem sooner, if all collective follow through. This can be overcome.