The back-to-school routine is in full swing, and that means greater exposure to germs.
In school, kids are exposed to exponentially more germs. After school, kids bring germs home with them, increasing the risk of exposing parents, other family members, and caregivers. Germs can cause respiratory illnesses, colds, flu, other viruses, and more.
Here’s how to keep your child healthy while at school.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages children, parents, and school staff to take everyday preventive actions to avoid spreading germs:
- Stay home when you are sick. Stay home from work and school, and avoid public places. Remember that babies and elderly people are especially vulnerable.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use, and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve, not your hand.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way. Probably the biggest thing that parents can do is both show their child how to wash their hands and insist on their child doing that. Please emphasize and expand upon a bit.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces or objects. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work, or school, especially when someone is ill.
Even when children are in contact with other kids who aren’t sick, they could be carrying germs from someone who is. Practice preventive measures and make sure your family does too. A few good habits can build stronger immune systems that help prevent illness.