Your kids are back in school and now cold and flu season is just around the corner. Many parents ask us the best ways to keep their children well and out of the doctor’s office as they return to school. We wrote this article to help address those questions!
Below are three ways to help reduce the likelihood or severity of getting sick!
#1 Practice Good Hygiene
The practice of keeping good hygiene not only can help your kids stay well but your whole family! Kids can wash their hands after sneezing/coughing, using the bathroom, handling trash, and before eating food.
Suggest for your kids to wash their hands for 20 seconds at a time with soap and warm water. The key is to make this process fun for your kids so consider incorporating a song as part of the hand washing routine!
When there is no access to soap and water, have your kids use hand sanitizer. Some parents have been attaching a hand sanitizer to their child’s backpack for backup sanitization, such as when they are at school.
#2 Take Care of Your Immune System
Did you know that your immune system’s specific job is to fight away the harmful bacteria and germs that enter your body? The immune system’s role is essential to reducing your likelihood of getting sick.
Below are some ways to help your overall immunity during cold and flu season:
- Get plenty of sleep
- Drink plenty of water
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
- Feed your body with the proper nutrients (e.g., fruits, vegetables, and proteins)
- Increase your intake of Vitamin C
#3 Stay At Home When You Are Sick
There are multiple ways to help reduce the chances of your child getting sick, but sometimes they will still catch a cold or the flu. The most significant way to reduce the spread of flu and cold germs is to stay away from others who are sick and exhibiting symptoms.
Our physicians highly recommend staying at home if you or your child comes ill, especially if your child has a fever. If you feel your symptoms are worsening, please seek attention from a healthcare provider. The CDC recommends that if you have been fever free for at least 24 hours and have mild symptoms, you or your child may return to work or school.
Sick Kid? We Can Help!
Unfortunately, there is no way to keep your kids from catching the occasional virus. When the flu or colds hit your household and your symptoms are not manageable by over-the-counter medications, turn KidsStreet Urgent Care.
Find a location near you today and register online to reduce your in-clinic wait time. We are open for extended hours for your convenience, seven days a week.
Think you may have COVID-19? Our clinics offer Covid-19 testing as well.