thenewbornbaby.net
baby with bottle
New parents try very hard to shield their baby from potential hazards including germs. Parents Magazine provides the following tips on how to keep baby away from possibly harmful germs.
- Keep baby close. More than 80 percent of germs are transmitted by touch. Keep your own hands clean and if another family member or friend wants to hold baby, simply ask them to wash their hands. If a sink is not available, it is OK to tell someone that you prefer they didn't hold your child since small babies can get sick easily.
- Don't bring baby to crowded places. During baby's first 4-6 weeks of life it is a good idea to avoid places with a lot of people, especially those with many children.
- Get rid of unfinished milk. Whether your baby is drinking formula or breast milk, it is important to toss out any milk leftover in a bottle. Bacteria from baby's mouth can backwash into the bottle and cause it to be contaminated.
- Launder baby's clothes separately. Other family members clothes may contain bacteria that could end up on baby's skin if washed together.
- Sterilize new bottles and pacifiers. These should be boiled before their first use. Following the first sterilization, these should be frequently washed in the dishwasher or in warm soapy water.
- Don't allow pets to "kiss" baby. Animals mouths are full of germs and could be a source of infection for baby. Don't allow pets to lick baby's face or hands during the first 2-3 months. After that, make sure to wash baby's face and hands after playing with cats and dogs.
Source: http://www.parents.com
