The Perils of Newborns Wearing Second-Hand Clothes: A Warning
from Pediatricians
In a time where economic challenges push many low-income parents towards purchasing used clothes, commonly known as "okirika," as a cost-effective alternative for their newborns, pediatricians have raised a red flag regarding the potential health risks associated with such clothing choices.
Experts in child health have cautioned that dressing newborns in pre-owned garments can expose them to various health hazards, including skin allergies, infections, and infestations. The vulnerability of newborns, whose immune systems are still developing, heightens concerns over the hidden dangers that second-hand clothing may harbor.
While the affordability of okirika may seem appealing, pediatricians have stressed that the health risks linked to dressing newborns in used clothes outweigh the short-term financial savings. Renowned pediatric surgeon Professor Aminu Mohammad, who also serves as the president of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, expressed deep apprehension over the trend of using okirika clothing for newborns.
Professor Mohammad emphasized that the delicate and developing immune systems of newborns make them particularly susceptible to the health risks associated with second-hand clothes. Parents, in opting for cheaper, pre-worn clothing items, may unwittingly expose their infants to severe health consequences that could have long-lasting effects.
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Newborns face a heightened risk of developing contact dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition triggered by allergic reactions to chemicals present in processed second-hand clothes. Chemicals like dyes, formaldehyde, or fabric softeners used in these garments can irritate a newborn's sensitive skin, leading to severe rashes, redness, and swelling.
The thin and sensitive nature of newborns' skin makes them more prone to allergens and irritants penetrating their skin, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions. Formaldehyde, commonly used in preserving clothes, poses a significant danger, as exposure to this chemical can result in respiratory issues and skin irritations, particularly concerning for infants with underdeveloped respiratory systems.
Apart from chemical exposure, second-hand clothes may harbor harmful bacteria, fungi, and parasites like lice, fleas, and scabies. These microorganisms can cause infections such as staphylococcus, ringworm, and other skin conditions, which can spread quickly when in contact with a newborn's sensitive skin.
The risks extend to bedbug infestations, with bed bugs hiding in fabrics and potentially transferring to a baby's skin and environment, causing discomfort and potential health complications. Lack of control over the cleanliness and condition of second-hand clothes further amplifies the health risks associated with their use.
Pediatricians stress the importance of proper hygiene and sanitation when it comes to clothing, urging parents to prioritize their children's health by avoiding okirika altogether. They suggest exploring alternative affordable options such as purchasing new clothing at discounted prices or swapping gently used clothes with friends and family.
Chief Medical Director of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching
Hospital, Professor John Okeniyi, underscores the need for parents to consider
the potential risks and consequences of opting for second-hand clothing for
their children. While affordability may be a driving factor behind the demand
for okirika items, concerns about cleanliness, hygiene, and the potential
impact on children's self-esteem remain critical considerations in the
decision-making process.
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