Back to School, Back to Germs
It’s back to school and back to germs. As a pediatrician, it’s like clockwork: one to two weeks after going back to school, the phones start ringing and the sick visits come pouring in.
Why does back to school bring illness? It’s a mystery that’s yet to be solved. After a nice long summer break, we send our kids back to school rested and healthy. Yet, somehow, a few weeks into the school year they come home sick and germy.
Does back to school have to result in illness? No, it doesn’t. Although I have yet to solve the mystery, I can provide some useful tips to help your kids stay healthy.
First, a healthy diet is always a great start. A diet filled with fruits and vegetables provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help boost the immune system. If you have a picky eater, try sneaking them into smoothies. If all else fails, vitamins are a good back-up plan. Remember, along with a healthy diet, kids need their 6-8 cups of water a day.
Next, get your kids outside and running around. Exercise has the capacity to protect and even enhance the immune response.
Finally, make sure your kids are getting plenty of sleep. It’s been well documented that a rested body is better equipped to fight off infection.
Now that we have a healthy body, let’s keep those germs away. If possible, have your children bring their own supplies to school. A lot of germ sharing comes from using community school supplies. I have first-hand experience with this one as I’m sure that’s how my son contracted the swine flu.
Remind your kids to wash their hands before meals, after recess, and, of course, after using the restroom.
Keep their hands away from their faces, out of their mouths, and out of their noses.
Most viruses enter the body through mucous membranes, namely, through your mouth, nose, and eyes.
Lastly, with the flu season right around the corner, the best way to protect your kids is to make sure the whole family gets a flu shot.
Good luck, and have a great, healthy school year!
