"Doctor, my child is constantly sick" — this is one of the sentences I hear most often in my clinic. The good news is this: in the vast majority of children who get sick often, the immune system is completely normal. Children build their immunity precisely by coming into contact with germs.

Which Frequency Is Normal?

  • 6–10 upper respiratory tract infections per year is normal in the preschool period
  • In a child who has just started daycare, the first year may be even more frequent
  • Considering that each infection lasts 7–10 days, the impression of "never getting better" arises over the course of winter — when in fact these are back-to-back infections caused by different viruses

The most reassuring finding is that the child is well, growing, and developing normally between these infections.

Warning Signs That Suggest a True Immunodeficiency

  • More than one severe infection in a single year (pneumonia, bone-joint infection, sepsis)
  • Frequently recurring infections that do not improve despite antibiotics
  • Persistent thrush, deep skin abscesses
  • A halt in growth and weight gain
  • Infection with unusual germs
  • A family history of unexplained early-age death or immunodeficiency

If these signs are present, an evaluation is carried out with a complete blood count and immune tests.

Evidence-Based Ways to Support Immunity

  1. Completing all vaccinations — the most effective way to strengthen immunity
  2. Breast milk
  3. A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, vitamin D supplementation
  4. A smoke-free home — passive smoking increases the frequency of infections
  5. The habit of handwashing

Most products advertised as "immune boosters" have no scientific basis; spend your money on a balanced diet instead.