Clalit Doctor Warns of Rising Cases of Children with Diarrhea and Vomiting This Summer

Dr. Basel Abu Jaafar, a pediatric specialist with Clalit Health Services in the southern district, has reported an increase in children presenting with diarrhea and vomiting during the summer months. He explains that children often gather in camps, pools, and group settings where intestinal infections can spread rapidly and be brought home. While heat itself does not cause diarrhea, it raises the risk of food spoilage and bacterial growth if food is not properly refrigerated, increasing the likelihood of gastrointestinal illness.

Dr. Abu Jaafar emphasizes the importance of preventive measures for parents, including ensuring children drink plenty of fluids, practicing hand hygiene, keeping food refrigerated, and monitoring for signs of dehydration. He notes that dehydration risk is higher in children already experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Contrary to common belief, thirst is not the first sign of dehydration; by the time thirst occurs, the body has already lost at least 12% of its fluids.

Even mild dehydration can impair brain function, causing reduced concentration, fatigue, and headaches. Children are particularly vulnerable since about 85% of their brain is composed of water, compared to roughly 75% in adults. Recent studies also link slight dehydration to mood changes such as irritability, sudden fatigue, and emotional outbursts, which can be early indicators of fluid deficiency in children.

Dr. Abu Jaafar’s advice to parents is clear: maintain hydration, practice good hygiene, store food properly, and stay alert to dehydration symptoms to protect children’s health during the hot season.