We help kids avoid winter illnesses
Our Plano pediatricians see a lot of sick kids in the winter months. Being forced to stay indoors and in close proximity to other people during bad weather can account for some of these illnesses. The winter is also flu season. As experienced pediatricians and parents, we understand the discomfort and disruption that winter illnesses can cause. Fortunately, parents and caregivers can help kids avoid winter illnesses by taking appropriate preventive measures.
One of the most important steps is making sure that your child receives the flu shot or flumist. This vaccine is safe and effective at preventing the flu. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children over six months old receive the flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible, though it’s better to receive it later in the season than never.
Help kids avoid winter illnesses at home
Parents and caregivers can help kids avoid winter illnesses in many ways.
- Hand-washing. Washing your hands after playing, before meal preparation and after using the bathroom is always a good policy. It is especially important when illness abounds. Our Plano pediatricians recommend getting children in the habit of washing their hands. Don’t forget to provide clean towels for drying.
- Limit sharing. It’s great when kids learn to share, but sometimes it’s better if they don’t. Don’t allow children to share cups, pacifiers or toothbrushes, especially when colds and the flu are going around.
- Illness hygiene. If your child becomes ill, avoid passing it along by cleaning toys your children put in their mouth, helping them remember to sneeze or cough into their arm or a tissue, and keeping them home from school or daycare if they are contagious or too sick to attend.
These tips are easy to incorporate into daily life, but can have a big impact on your child’s health and happiness during those long winter months.
If illness strikes, we can help
Despite everyone’s best efforts, children still sometimes fall ill. Our Plano pediatricians are here to help. We can treat bacterial infections and help you manage the symptoms of viral illnesses.
Our office offers flu vaccines beginning in the fall. To schedule your child’s flu shot or flumist, or for help with the symptoms of winter illnesses, contact us.
