Flu season is upon us. Avoiding the flu virus is a top priority for everyone, of course. It’s especially important for families with young children. who are at higher risk for complications. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your kids and everyone in your family healthy and flu-free.
Here are a few simple ways to help prevent the flu and stay healthy during flu season:
Get vaccinated. First and foremost, an annual flu vaccine is one of the most important steps in protecting against the flu. The vaccine is recommended for all children age 6 months and older. Many pharmacies offer flu vaccinations, or you can make an appointment with your healthcare provider. You can also join us for our next flu clinic that is scheduled for December 2nd from 8 AM – 12 PM.
Have kids wash their hands frequently. Use warm water and soap as often as possible, or hand sanitizer if out and about.
Cover up coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or cough/sneeze into your arm or elbow. Always clean your hands after.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. The flu virus needs a way in, and hands in the mouth and nose are like a virus superhighway! Teach kids to use tissues if they need to rub their eyes or blow their nose.
Keep the kiddos hydrated. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to keep your body functioning properly so it can fight off flu viruses and other illnesses. If symptoms are already present, good hydration keeps mucus thin and helps prevent dehydration from fever and/or vomiting.
Sleep. Rest is crucial to the body’s recuperative capacity and overall resilience against illness. Make sure everyone in the family is getting the rest they need to stay healthy.
Nutrition. Our body is a factory, always rebuilding and rejuvenating, and it needs good food for energy. A balanced diet filled with fruits and vegetables provides the vitamins and nutrients we need to keep our bodies strong.
Avoid people who are sick. Keep your distance from family members, relatives, and/or friends who are showing symptoms. As well, if your child does get sick, make sure he or she stays home to rest and recover. A general guideline is to stay home 24 hours after fever subsides without medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Additional Resource
CDC Frequently Asked Flu Questions 2017-2018 Influenza Season