Experts have warned mothers on the risks of taking medical advice for their children from the internet.
“Many mothers think if a baby gets a skin rash, diarrhea or any other problem, they can easily run to the internet to find medication or treatment for them but this is wrong. The problem with it is that sometimes the internet will give you all sorts of treatment which may not apply to your child,” Dr. Irene Bagala, a pediatric and also the Manager of Global Health Uganda.
Speaking during the launch of Cussons Baby Share the Joy campaign organized by African Queen in Kampala, Dr.Bagala said it is very risky to take healthcare decisions based on information gleaned from a google search on the internet without consulting physicians trained to diagnose and treat health conditions.
She said those engaging in such habits are taking serious health risks, adding that only medical doctors are trained to give medical advice as well as diagnose and treat health conditions.
“Don’t use internet as your source of doctor but rather take them to hospital for doctors to look at the child to diagnose the exact problem affecting them. The doctor will prescribe medication after looking at the child yet the internet will do so without looking at the child which is wrong.”
“Don’t use internet or Google as your medical personnel. Take the child to trained medical personnel to be able to rightly diagnose the problem because the internet can easily give you all sorts of treatment which may not apply to your child.”
Mariam Nabwami, the head of PZ Cussons in Uganda said the Share the Joy campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of good baby skin care practices among Ugandan parents.
“We aim to equip mothers with the knowledge and resources necessary to care for their babies’ delicate skins. The campaign that will span 3 months, across the country aims to offer practical tips, expert consultations, and a platform for mothers to engage with pediatricians who understand the local health challenges faced by babies in Uganda and ensure healthier, happier babies. We will also use the campaign to reward our loyal customers,” Nabwami said.
