Staying Well This Flu Season with Dr Martha Liu
- Jul 9, 2025
- 3 min read
As the year moves into the warmer months, many families in Singapore are looking forward to school holidays, travel plans and outdoor fun. But along with the excitement comes a rise in common childhood illnesses. Flu season tends to peak during the months of May to August and again from December to March in tropical climates. This makes it an important time for parents to take gentle steps to protect their children’s health.
Dr Martha Liu, Consultant Paediatrician at Joyful Seeds Paediatric and Developmental Clinic, shares some thoughtful and practical ways to keep little ones healthy and resilient during this period.
Simple daily habits that make a difference
Dr Liu encourages families to look at their daily routines as the foundation of strong immunity. Eating a wide range of colourful fruits and vegetables, drinking enough water, enjoying regular outdoor play and getting enough rest all help build a child’s natural defences.
She also recommends including foods that are naturally rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc. These support a healthy immune system in children of all ages. Staying active through walks, dancing at home or playground time helps keep energy and mood balanced too.
Hygiene that supports wellbeing
Good hygiene helps prevent the spread of viruses among children, especially in childcare settings, schools and public places. Dr Liu reminds families to encourage handwashing with soap, especially before meals and after play. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based sanitiser can be useful on the go.
Other small actions, like cleaning shared surfaces, reminding children to avoid touching their faces, and staying home when feeling unwell, go a long way in protecting both your child and the people around them.
Flu season protection through vaccination
Dr Liu gently reminds parents that yearly flu vaccination is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness. The vaccine is suitable for children aged six months and above, and is especially helpful for those with chronic conditions or asthma. She also recommends that pregnant women receive the vaccine as it protects both mother and baby in the early months.
Vaccinations such as pneumococcal and COVID-19 boosters are important additions for vulnerable groups including young children and the elderly.
Caring for your child when flu symptoms appear
When a child develops flu symptoms, rest and comfort are key. Dr Liu advises isolating the unwell child where possible and using masks if they need to be near others. Rest, hydration and simple home remedies can ease mild symptoms. Parents are reminded to use only age-appropriate medications and to seek medical advice if they are unsure.
If symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, it is always best to consult a paediatrician for a more thorough review.
Exploring natural remedies safely
Dr Liu also touches on the role of plant-based options that some families may consider. One example is Pelargonium sidoides, a medicinal plant used traditionally to help with respiratory infections. She highlights that while some clinical studies show early use may help shorten illness duration, it is still important to assess each child’s age, health condition and the nature of the illness before use. A conversation with your doctor can help you decide if this is right for your child.
Support through every season at Joyful Seeds Paediatric and Developmental Clinic
Located in Bukit Timah, Joyful Seeds Paediatric and Developmental Clinic offers thoughtful, family-centred care for children of all ages. Whether your child needs help managing seasonal illness or ongoing support for developmental needs, Dr Martha Liu and Dr Charmaine Teo work closely with families to provide calm, evidence-based care.
For parents looking for guidance during this flu season or support with vaccinations and childhood health concerns, the team at Joyful Seeds is here to help you feel supported at every step.
