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Children and Health
Hong Kong is a generally a healthy place for children. Polio and diphtheria have been eliminated,
and tuberculosis (TB) is very rare in children due to the universal BCG vaccinations given at birth.
The following are common health concerns to be aware of:
Asthma
Asthmaticchildrenmaysuffermorehereduetothepollutantsintheair,althoughsometimesthe
humiditymakesbreathingeasier.Someexpatriatesfindairpurifiersandremovingrugs,down
comfortersandpillowsfromtheirroomscanhelp.
Parasites.
The most common types of parasites in Hong Kong are threadworm and roundworms. Treatment
includes drugs such as Vermox or Combantrin.
Respiratory Infections.
Respiratory infections, coughs, colds, and middle ear infections are perhaps a little more common
herethaninothercountries.Thisispartlyduetothehighhumidity—whichisanexcellent
breeding ground for germs—aggravated by the crowded environment, and the temperature
extremes ingoingfromtheheatandhumidityof theoutsidetotherefrigeratedchill of air-
conditioned interiors.
Sunburn and Skin Problems
Beware of sunburn; always apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days, particularly for babies and
toddlers. Imported sun-protective swimwear and clothing is available.Warm, humid Hong Kong
weather heals up eczema, but impetigo and prickly heat are more common. Often the use of
simple antiseptic powders or creams will alleviate theproblem.