Getting to grips with ‘Creche Syndrome’

What is Creche Syndrome

Creche syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis, but as the name suggests a syndrome. It refers to an ongoing cycle of illnesses like colds, sniffles, upper respiratory infections and can even lead to secondary infections like gastro and tonsilitis. Young children are very easily infected at a creche or day-care where they come into contact with other children on a daily basis.

The condition is common among toddlers and may result in your child becoming ill as often as every second week. This in turn may have a massive impact on your and the rest of your families health as you struggle with knock on infections, a lack of sleep due to consoling a sick child and may even have a financial impact following repeated visits to the doctor or clinic and taking time off work.

Why does it occur

Children have no immunity at birth aside from their mother’s antibodies. Coming into contact with viruses help children build up their own antibodies and develop an immune system.

Creche syndrome occurs with continuous virus load – one after another – that wears down the child’s health. Your child won’t have enough resistance to fight off illness due to the unrelenting cycle of sickness.

How to beat the bugs

Fight with food

If not eating correctly, a child’s immune systems and gut health become impaired so they catch colds frequently and become constipated. Good nutrition is essential in fighting creche syndrome, provide the essential vitamins and minerals needed to support the immune system.

Vitamin & mineral support

An underlying iron, zinc or vitamin D deficiency are often present and can affect the immune system dramatically, increasing a child’s susceptibility to an infection. Consider supplementing your child’s diet with a broad spectrum multivitamin with vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and B12, zinc, selenium and magnesium.

Probiotics

Probiotics support your child’s gut and therefore their immune system, acting like soldiers to fight off bacteria.

Need more advice?

Speak to your medical practitioner or make use of the Legal&Tax Trauma Assist service which includes telephonic medical advice from qualified nurses.

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