By Nyang’au Araka
Overcrowding and poor sleep quality, are to blame for the upsurge of upper respiratory infections amongst children, an expert has said.
Dr Geofrey Otomu who is an Eye, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist says doctors have noted an increase of such infections in recent years.
Also Read
“For children to be safe from upper respiratory infections, parents should ensure that they learn, play and sleep in spaces that are not overcrowded,” Dr Otomu said.
He said classrooms should be well ventilated.
“Apart from infections that cause running nose, some children end up having enlarged tonsils,” Dr Otomu said.
He was speaking at The Milimani Excellence School –Kisii.
The institution that stands out owing to its modernistic premises and other requisite facilities was celebrating the commissioning of their pioneer class that is proceeding to Grade 4 next year.
The consultant ENT surgeon said that while it was proper for children to sleep on a separate bed or bedroom as they grow, parents should “once in a while check the quality of sleep they are having.”
Dr Otomu said parents should observe the breathing patterns of their children and seek intervention when they suspect any changes.
“Sneak to their room and listen to their breathing pattern. Witness the quality of their sleep because it affects the quality of their brain,” he said.
“Irregular breathing can affect the growth and performance of children.”
The Milimani Excellence Academy director, Prof. Henry Onderi said learners should embrace the values of inquiry, creativity and adaptability.
Prof Onderi who works at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOST) and is the outgoing County Director of Education-Kisii said the world is in want of critical thinkers.
“The modern day learner should collaborate with peers and approach challenges with resilience,” he said.
Prof Onderi who recently authored a book titled, Basic Education in Kenya: A Reality Check, expressed optimism that the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) will produce up to task professionals in diverse fields in the coming days.
“This institution is anchored on CBC as the vehicle that will produce the next crop of thinkers, innovators, engineers, teachers, scientists, among other experts for Kenya and the world,” he said.
The event was also addressed by Zachary Onduso, director Olympic Group of Schools, who encouraged stakeholders in education to work closely to better the sector.
The sentiments were echoed by Samuel Orenge, the director of Elsa Academy-Ogembo, who also encouraged parents to lay a good future for their children.
