Back-to-school is out of the way, and we’re into the heart of the first semester. Most parents know that autumn is also the start of respiratory infection season, stuck on the end of the fall hay fever bombardment.
As autumn begins, Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD and her Fountain Valley, California, team want to share a series of tips designed for keeping kids healthy as the seasons change. Let’s take a look at some effective strategies.
Cooler weather and the school season both bring kids inside, in close proximity, a biological environment that creates a rich breeding ground and arena for the transmission of pathogens like cold viruses, flu viruses, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an infection that can be serious for preschool-age kids.
Focusing on viral invaders has the most bang-for-the-buck for your prevention efforts, though parents with asthmatic children must also keep an eye on fall hay fever conditions. Our tips today target viruses and what you can do to protect your children.
Kids rarely wash their hands often enough or long enough. Low-key repetition may be your only way forward. Raise pressure, and they won’t wash at all. Matter-of-fact reminders may instill good habits more readily.
Make hand sanitizer available, such as on their school backpack, to encourage use. Small tissue packs help to protect coughs and sneezes from spreading. Teach them to use their elbow when there’s no tissue handy. Don’t forget to restock these items as necessary.
Since pathogens often enter the body from the face, encourage touching awareness to avoid infection transmitted from their hands.
Vaccines teach your child’s immune systems to deal with many viral illnesses. For children over 6 months of age, the annual flu shot reduces the chance of infection by the most common mutations, which change over time.
Vaccines for COVID-19 and RSV are also recommended. We suggest keeping your child current with the vaccine schedule provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Your child’s immune system works better when it’s supported with:
Foods that are rich with probiotics, like yogurt, are also linked to better immune system performance.
When your child comes down with a contagious seasonal illness, keep them home to prevent spreading pathogens. Be ready with children-strength medications to handle symptoms, tissues, electrolyte fluids, and even chicken soup to help ease the effects of respiratory illness.
Ventilate your home to dilute airborne pathogens or use HEPA filters in portable air purifiers to reduce the chances of illnesses starting. Regular disinfection of common surfaces can also help.
Whether you need to update immunizations or deal with severe symptoms, contact Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD. Call or click to book with our office whenever you need.
