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Trafford PCT is urging parents to encourage their children to make the most of the spring sunshine this Easter break to boost their levels of vitamin D, following reports of an increase in cases of rickets in the UK.
Rickets is a disease that affects bone development in children and causes the softening and weakening of the bones. It was once associated with poverty in Victorian times, but is making a comeback, due in part to children spending more time indoors instead of enjoying the fresh air.
Marie Price, health improvement officer at Trafford PCT, said: "The most common cause of rickets is a lack of vitamin D or calcium in the diet. We get most of our vitamin D from sunlight, as the vitamin forms under the skin in reaction to exposure to the sun.
"While it is important to stay out of the sun during the hours of 11am to 3pm when its rays are hottest and most dangerous, around 15 minutes sun exposure on the hands and face a few times a week during spring and summer provides a good source of vitamin D.
"We can get some vitamin D through food sources, such as oily fish, eggs, margarine and some breakfast cereals, but dietary sources alone typically don’t provide the recommended amount, so a bit of daily sunlight is the best option."
Those who spend a long period of time indoors, or wear clothes that completely cover the skin, may benefit from vitamin supplements.
Vitamin D drops for 0 to five-year-olds are also available from health centres across the borough and are free for those on the Healthy Start voucher scheme. Anyone worried about their children's vitamin D levels should consult their GP, midwife or health visitor for more information.
Trafford Primary Care Trust, 2nd Floor Oakland House, Talbot Rd, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0PQ