While sponging your baby, always wash his face first, while the water is the cleanest.

Make sure that the nappy is clean and dry and in case the nappy gets infected, using a little antiseptic powder will help dry it.

Do not use disinfectants on your baby's skin, because they take away the skin's natural ability to fight infection.

Always remember to wash the baby's hands after she has come in contact with pets.

Till the baby is four months old, sterilise everything that goes into your baby's mouth. Try keeping her away from people that are sick.

Be careful about storage and heating of milk, never leave it at room temperature for too long.

After 4 months continue sterilising milk utensils and water bottles.

Good food preparation rules should be followed.

Do not be tempted to start the antibiotics by yourself and always consult your doctor before doing so.

Many illnesses like simple coughs, colds, mild diarrhoea, skin infections tend to run a self-limiting course of about 3 to 7 days. A great majority of these do not need antibiotics. Adequate rest, fluids, balanced diet and mild painkillers are good enough for your child.

Avoid giving antibiotics on a full stomach or with milk or antacids. These may hamper the absorption of antibiotics from the stomach. Many antibiotics (ampicillin, amoxycillin, etc.) cause mild side effects such as abdominal discomfort and occasional diarrhoea. These are usually transient, subside gradually on their own and are no reason to discontinue the treatment.

Inform your doctor before hand if your child or family has a history of drug allergies, eruptions or asthma or G6PD deficiency. This can help your doctor greatly to plan your child's treatment appropriately.