The signs might already be there. More people coughing, sneezing, and sick days are starting to be used. These are clear signs that flu season is upon us once again. While the thought of fall normally brings thoughts of cozy sweaters and pumpkin patches, it also brings reminders of how sick you can get as the flu virus becomes more active. For kids, especially those in schools, daycares, and extracurricular activities, it’s important to take precautions to stay healthy during this time.
What Parents Should Know About the Flu
It’s something we hear about every year. But what is the Flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Influenza A and B viruses are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. It mostly spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. Symptoms often appear suddenly, including fever, cough, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea in children. Compared to the common cold, the flu is more severe and can lead to complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, or worsening of chronic conditions.
Why is This Flu Season Important?
Flu season typically peaks in the fall and winter months, when people are indoors more often, making it easier for the virus to spread. This year is particularly important in getting your flu shot as Tennessee saw a rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the summer. Schools, where children interact closely, can become hot spots for the virus to pass from one person to another. This is why it’s crucial for kids to get vaccinated, as it can help prevent severe illness and hospitalizations. Even if individuals think they are healthy, the risk of serious illness is still high.
How Can Kids Prepare?
As a parent, you can take several steps to ensure your child is ready for what could be a rollercoaster of flu season.
1. Get the Flu Shot
Obviously, the most important thing is getting that vaccine. The flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated each year. For kids, the flu shot not only protects them but also helps reduce the spread of the virus to classmates, family members, and others.
The flu shot is widely available, and scheduling an appointment is easy. It’s important to get this early on, as it takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity after vaccination.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Kids get into all kinds of things, so it’s important to start teaching them healthy hygiene habits when they are young. Remind your child to:
● Wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before meals and after playing outside.
● Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
● Cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
● Avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth, where the virus can easily enter the body.
3. Eat Nutritious Foods
The old proverb, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” can ring true. A healthy diet helps strengthen the immune system, making it easier to fight off infections. Getting kids to eat their greens is hard, but encouraging them to eat various fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals will pay off. Foods high in vitamin C (such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers) and zinc (found in meat, beans, and nuts) are particularly beneficial for immune health.
4. Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is essential for a strong immune system, especially for growing kids. School-age children typically need 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night to stay healthy and focused. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine will ensure your child is well-rested.
5. Stay Active
Regular physical activity boosts overall health and helps keep the immune system in good shape. Getting your child involved in outdoor activities like biking, playing sports, or running around the yard can benefit tremendously. Even a daily walk can make a difference in their health.
6. Stay Home When Sick
It’s last on this list, but it is another important one. If your child has flu-like symptoms, keeping them home from school or activities is important to avoid spreading the virus. While this may mean missing out on a day or two of class, it’s better than having your child spread that sickness to others at school.
Statistics About the Flu in The United States
According to the CDC, the flu impacts millions of people annually in the United States. Between 2010 and 2020, the annual flu seasons resulted in 9 to 41 million illnesses, 140,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations, and 12,000 to 52,000 deaths.
These numbers highlight the importance of getting the flu vaccine. During 2019–2020, the flu vaccination prevented an estimated 7 million illnesses, 3 million flu-associated medical visits, 100,000 flu-associated hospitalizations, and 7,000 influenza-associated deaths. Despite this, vaccination rates remain below the levels desired.
If you are hesitant about the flu vaccine or have general questions, it’s important to schedule a call with your healthcare provider to ensure you are receiving the most up-to-date information. Making your health a priority this fall will help ensure you and your kids can enjoy all there is to do before the winter months arrive and moist outdoor activities are put on pause.
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