5 Common Health Myths About Children in Rural Telangana: Busted by Experts

Health myths often pass from generation to generation in rural areas, especially concerning children. While cultural wisdom holds value, misinformation can delay timely medical help or lead to unsafe practices. In this blog, the pediatric experts at Kurapati Children Hospital, Khammam bust five widespread child health myths in rural Telangana—so parents can make informed choices.

Myth 1: “Teething causes fever and diarrhea”

Truth:Teething can make babies irritable and cause excessive drooling, but it does not cause fever or diarrhea. If your baby has these symptoms, they may have an infection—not teething issues.

Ignoring real symptoms by attributing them to teething may delay proper treatment.

Myth 2: “A child with a cold should not be bathed”

Truth:Many rural families avoid bathing children when they catch a cold, fearing it will worsen the illness. In reality, a warm water bath can soothe the child, clean away germs, and even help relieve congestion.

However, cold water or bathing in windy weather should be avoided.

Myth 3: “Worms only happen to children who eat sweets”

Truth:Worms are caused by poor hygiene, open defecation, and contaminated food/water—not sweets.

Children should be dewormed every 6 months as per medical guidelines, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where sanitation may be a concern.

Myth 4: “A newborn should not be exposed to sunlight”

Truth:Controlled, early morning sunlight is vital for babies to absorb vitamin D, which helps in bone growth and immunity. Keeping a baby completely away from sunlight can lead to deficiency.

Avoid harsh mid-day sun, but a few minutes of soft sunlight is beneficial.

Myth 5: “Boiling water is enough; no need for vaccinations”

Truth:Clean water helps prevent some infections, but vaccinations are essential to protect against serious diseases like measles, polio, hepatitis, and more.

Unfortunately, fear or misinformation around vaccines still exists in parts of Telangana. Parents should ensure their child’s immunization schedule is complete and up to date.

How Parents Can Overcome Myths

• Always verify information with a certified pediatrician.

• Don’t rely solely on elders or neighbors for medical decisions.

• Attend local health camps and awareness programs.

• Follow your child’s vaccination and check-up schedule without delay.

• Read reliable sources like government health websites or hospital blogs.

Why Trust Kurapati Children Hospital, Khammam

When it comes to child health in Telangana, Kurapati Children Hospital is a name families trust.

• Over 1 million children treated successfully

• Deep commitment to healthcare and quality since inception

• Equipped with 24/7 emergency pediatric care, lab, NICU, and specialized care units

• Known for community outreach, especially in rural districts

Informed parenting is powerful parenting. By breaking free of outdated health myths, rural families can ensure stronger, safer childhoods for the next generation. If you’re unsure about something related to your child’s health, don’t guess—ask the experts.

Visit Kurapati Children Hospital, Khammam, for trusted advice and comprehensive pediatric care.