Baby
      Toddler wears face mask without allergies
      Coronavirus (COVID-19)

      Immunity and Microbiota Quiz

      Toddler wears face mask without allergies

      Test your knowledge on viruses, bacteria and microscopic fungi your baby may come into contact with. Which is harmful, which is not?

      1. Are all bacteria dangerous for your baby?

      No

      In water, air, soil - bacteria are everywhere. Although some are pathogenic and can cause harm to the body, they are often harmless and can even be useful... Their presence is complete normal, and we even need them!

      Reference: https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/babies-and-bateria

      2. Are viruses transmitted through the air we breathe?

      Yes and No

      When your baby is sick, they sneeze, cough and sputter out some saliva that contains small virus-infected airborne particles. Especialy in an enclosed room: his bedroom, a waiting room... Most viruses can't survive in the open air for long, but some may be more resistant than others!

      Reference: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070515100204.htm

      3. Are antibiotics effective against viruses?

      No

      If your baby is sick, be aware that antibiotics are only effective in fighting bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not always the solution, they will hav eno effect against viral infections (bronchitis, flu, etc.). Please consult your doctor and seek advice if you're worried.

      Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/patientsafety/features/be-antibiotics-aware.html

      4. I'm a microscopic fungus. Am I a microbe?

      Yes

      Microscopic fungi are living organisms that can cause fungal infections and can appear on your child's body - on the skin and mucuous membranes. They usually appear as small red patches. Warm, moist environments such as small folds of skin, execerbated by the weather in Singapore, can promote the development of fungal infections. It's therefore important to dry your child well after bathing.

      Reference: https://microbiologysociety.org/why-microbiology-matters/what-is-microbiology/fungi.html

      5. Can microbes be present on toys?

      Yes

      Toys, whether made of plastic, wood or fabric, can carry a number of bacteria. So it's important to ensure they're cleaned regularly either in the washing machine or in hot soapy water and they don't come into too much contact with your baby's mouth.

      Reference: https://microbiologysociety.org/why-microbiology-matters/what-is-microbiology/microbes-and-the-human-body/routes-of-transmission.html

      6. Does the cold kill germs?

      Yes and No

      Unfortunately, not always. Microbes are living organisms that can be very resistant and grow between 10°C and 50°C. Their development below 10°C is simply slowed down... Remember to wash your and your baby's hands carefully to avoid the spread of microbes.

      Reference: https://www.insider.com/does-cold-air-kill-germs-and-viruses

      7. Does sneezing help keep germs away?

      Yes

      Don't hold your baby's sneeze in because some pathogens can be exprelled from the body. Remember to wash your baby's hands to avoid any contagion.

      Reference: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/11/161121130634.htm

      8. Do thousands of bacteria live in your baby's gut?

      Yes

      Good bacteria (called 'normal microbiota') live in your baby's digestive system and are beneficial to their wellbeing. How? Good bacteria help facilitate digestion e.g. by ingesting fiber that is not absorbed by the body or even by producing nutrients and vitamins that your baby needs!

      Reference: https://gutmicrobiotaforhealth.com/infographic-isapp-explains-gut-microbiota-role-health/

      Calculate your pregnancy week

      What's your due date?

      Date (yyyy-mm-dd) should be within the upcoming 40 weeks
      I don't know my due date

      Calculate your due date

      What's the first day of your last menstruation cycle?

      Make sure the date you entered is within the last 9 months.

      What's the length of your menstruation cycle?

      Calculate your due date

      Your due date is

      8 april 2018

      You are in week

      I'm in another week

      You are in week

      Want to stay up-to-date week by week?

      You are already subscribed for our pregnancy newsletter

      I'm not, where can I subscribe?
      I'm in another week
      aptamil-range-2020-q3

      FREE* 900g Aptamil Big Tin Sample

      If your child is 1 year and above, update your profile with your child’s info to receive a FREE 900g Aptamil sample*!
       
      Update Profile

      FREE* 900g Aptamil Big Tin Sample

      (worth up to $43.56)
      • Highest♢ DHA vs. other Growing Up Milk
      • Unique Prebiotic blend to help support your child’s natural defences
      • No. 1’ baby milk company in Europe
      • Try it!
      GET FREE SAMPLE

      Questions about feeding and nutrition?

      Our midwives, nutritionists and feeding advisors are always on hand to talk about feeding your baby. So if you have a question, just get in touch.