Protecting infants and children from extreme heat can be a matter of life and death. This is especially important during summer seasons like the current one, when some European countries are experiencing their fifth heat wave and high temperatures have become the norm in some areas of the United States. Exposure to extreme heat can negatively affect health and well-being, especially for infants and children under five. Why are they more vulnerable?
Infants sweat less per kilogram than adults and have a faster metabolism, meaning their body temperature rises more quickly, UNICEF explains. In addition, they spend more time outdoors playing, participating in sports, and engaging in other activities, and they often fail to remember to stay hydrated frequently—all of which leaves them vulnerable to the effects of the heat.
It is estimated that by 2050, nearly all children worldwide will be exposed to heat waves that will become more frequent and intense due to climate change.
Babies and extreme heat
Newborns through one-year-olds and children ages one to five may be at increased risk of heat-related illnesses. This is according to HealthLink BC, Canada’s telemedicine service. The risk is even greater if they are in an environment that lacks ventilation or is not kept cool.
Heat tends to build up inside homes when outdoor temperatures are high. Prolonged exposure to indoor temperatures above 31°C (87°F) can be dangerous. Therefore, if it’s very hot at home, it’s recommended to find a cooler place, especially if there’s an infant in the family.
Due to high temperatures, children may suffer from heat rash, cramps, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
Babies and how to protect them from the heat
One of the main recommendations is to avoid exposing babies under 12 months of age to direct sunlight. What is perhaps less well known is how to keep them properly cool indoors.
Health Canada advises against directing a fan directly at a child, as this can cause dehydration. The room should be kept cool with the fan running, but the airflow should not be directed at the infant’s body. Additionally, it’s important to remember that fans may not be sufficient to prevent heat-related illnesses if indoor temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F).
“Using a more open stroller with mesh panels, or removing the back panel, can help air circulate around your child. Keeping your baby in the shade in their stroller by using a sunshade will also help them stay cool,” according to HealthLink BC’s recommendations.
When it comes to feeding babies aged zero to six months on hot days, it’s recommended to offer more feedings of breast milk or formula than usual. And place a towel, sheet, or diaper between you and the baby during feedings.
“Try breastfeeding your baby while lying down. If you’re breastfeeding your baby, you should also stay well-hydrated; try to drink a cool, non-alcoholic, low-sugar beverage during each feeding, in addition to other drinks throughout the day,” the medical service advises mothers.
For children older than six months, they should also be given more feedings of breast milk or formula. In addition, small amounts of water can be given between feedings.
Babies and heat stroke
If a baby’s body temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F), they may be suffering from heat stroke. How can you tell? The main symptoms include a sudden high fever, hot and dry skin, rapid heart rate, severe irritability, and possible loss of consciousness.
To prevent heatstroke in infants, Stanford Medicine recommends gradually acclimating children’s bodies to the heat. How? By not exposing them to heat suddenly or for prolonged periods, but rather by gradually increasing the time they spend outdoors. Additionally, they warn against ever leaving babies and children alone in a vehicle.
For children who are already mobile and engage in recreational activities, it’s important for them to exercise, play sports, and engage in games during the coolest hours of the day (in the mornings and/or afternoons). Teaching them to take breaks in the shade to hydrate and cool off can be key to preventing overheating and more serious health effects.
In addition, it is recommended that they wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics—such as linen—and in light colors. Protecting themselves from the sun with a hat and sunscreen also contributes to their care.
Babies and Heat Stroke
If a baby’s body temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F), they may be suffering from heat stroke. How can you tell? The main symptoms include a sudden high fever, hot and dry skin, rapid heart rate, severe irritability, and possible loss of consciousness.
To prevent heatstroke in infants, Stanford Medicine recommends gradually acclimating children’s bodies to the heat. How? By not exposing them to heat suddenly or for prolonged periods, but rather by gradually increasing the time they spend outdoors. Additionally, they warn against ever leaving babies and children alone in a vehicle.
For children who are already mobile and engage in recreational activities, it’s important for them to exercise, play sports, and engage in games during the coolest hours of the day (in the mornings and/or afternoons). Teaching them to take breaks in the shade to hydrate and cool off can be key to preventing overheating and more serious health effects.
In addition, it is recommended that they wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics—such as linen—and in light colors. Protecting themselves from the sun with a hat and sunscreen also contributes to their care.
If you have any questions, or if your child has a specific medical condition and/or is taking any medication, we recommend consulting your doctor for proper guidance on how to protect children from extreme temperatures.
