Tips for Battling Fall Sickness

September 29, 2023

Now that your child is back in school, they are sharing more than just toys, books, and homework. That’s right— they are sharing germs. During the fall months, we see an influx of patients who are suffering from many different viruses, such as the cold and influenza virus. Fall sickness can strike at any time, and it’s important to be prepared. 

Battling Fall Sickness In Your Children

In order to protect your school-aged child and the rest of your family members from fall sickness, it is important to take proper precautions against germs. Holly Springs Pediatrics is here to give you five quick tips for battling the dreaded fall germs.

1. Stay Up To Date On Vaccinations

In order to ensure your child is properly protected against certain illnesses, vaccinations are key. It is never too late to make sure vaccinations are up to date. If you are unsure of vaccination records, check with your child’s pediatrician to make sure a booster is not needed. Also, be sure to schedule your child’s flu shot if you have not already done so. The flu shot is crucial to limiting the spread of the influenza virus.

2. Avoid high-germ locations

When it comes to the spread of germs, especially at school, we recommend advising your child to stay clear of certain high-germ locations. Highly handled objects, such as the school cafeteria trays and the monkey bars, are popular locations for germs to thrive. Additionally, public areas, such as water fountains, are the perfect breeding ground for germs. While fall sickness is in full bloom, we recommend packing a lunch and water bottle for your child to lessen the chances of contamination.

3. Lather Up

You have heard this time and time again, but washing hands is an extremely important way to fight off fall sickness. In fact, washing hands is the best defense against germs and should be practiced throughout the day. We recommend hand washing specifically before and after mealtime, after a trip to the restroom, and after any activity where you handle shared equipment, such as a visit to the playground or art room. If your child has difficulty remembering to wash their hands throughout the day, supply them with hand sanitizer for their desk or backpack. Carrying hand sanitizer is always a great alternative for when the recommended hand washing is not feasible.

4. Don’t Share Supplies

When it comes to the spreading of fall germs, shared classroom supplies are a known culprit, especially when it comes to younger children who put items in their mouths. A child may sneeze on their hand and proceed to reach in the bucket of art supplies for a crayon. To avoid sickness, have your child bring their own supplies, such as pens, pencils, markers, calculators and other highly shared supplies when possible. If the sharing of supplies is unavoidable, advise them to wash their hands after handling these items.

5. Rest up

Sickness tends to strike when the immune system is weakened. Being tired and stressed can weaken the immune system, making you or your child more susceptible to fall sickness. To keep your child’s defense up, getting a good night’s sleep, exercising, and eating a well-balanced diet is key. These healthy lifestyle habits aid in keeping the immune systems working strong and help keep germs at bay.

Holly Springs Pediatrics Is Here When Fall Sickness Strikes

At times fall sickness is unavoidable, even despite your best efforts. That is where Holly Springs Pediatrics comes in. If your child is ill, we are here to help. Call our office at (919) 249-4700 to schedule a same-day appointment. Your child’s health is our number one priority.