How to Prepare Your Child for Flu Season

17 Jan How to Prepare Your Child for Flu Season

The cold and flu season can be a challenging time for children and their families. In addition to dealing with symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion, parents also have to worry about the spread of illness to other family members and friends. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses and keep your child healthy.

Here are some tips to help keep your child healthy this season:

1. Get the Flu Shot: The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine.
2. Load up on tissue: Keep plenty of tissues on hand to help prevent the spread of germs. Encourage your child to sneeze or cough into their elbow or a tissue and throw the tissue away immediately.
3. Test your thermometer: Make sure your thermometer is working properly so you can accurately monitor your child’s temperature. A fever can be a sign of a cold or flu, so it’s important to check regularly.
4. Disinfect your home: Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. This can help reduce the spread of germs.
5. Avoid Germy Hands: Remind your child to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after being in contact with someone who is sick.
6. Have Hand Sanitizer available: Keep hand sanitizer available for times when soap and water are not readily available. Encourage your child to use it regularly, especially after touching commonly used surfaces.
7. Plan for sick days: Make a plan for how to handle sick days in advance. This might include making arrangements for alternative childcare or taking time off work to care for your child.
8. Rest: Encourage your child to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to help their body fight off illness. If your child is sick, keep them home from school or daycare to avoid spreading germs.

By following these tips, you can help protect your child from the cold and flu season and keep them healthy.

Getting a flu shot can reduce your child’s risk of getting sick and can also prevent serious complications such as pneumonia. In addition, getting a flu shot can help prevent the spread of the virus to others, including older family members and friends who may be more vulnerable to the flu.