It’s that time of year again — when you’re making your list, checking it twice, and braving crowded shopping malls as everyone hunts for the perfect gifts for their loved ones this holiday season. With chilly temperatures driving people indoors and crowded malls filled with holiday shoppers, the conditions are perfect for spreading illnesses. Close contact with others, combined with shared surfaces and seasonal viruses like the flu and colds, makes this time of year a peak period for getting sick. Amidst planning, decorating, and celebrating, one essential task to put on your list is ensuring your child is vaccinated.
The Gift of Protection
Winter is the peak season for illnesses like the flu, the common cold, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and COVID-19, especially with family gatherings, travel, and crowded festivities. While some may dismiss their symptoms as minor illnesses that will pass on their own, it’s important to remember that influenza alone is responsible for an estimated 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory-related deaths globally each year.
This is why ensuring children are up-to-date on their vaccines is important. Vaccination provides peace of mind by helping to prevent serious illnesses, reducing the stress of dealing with sick days, and ensuring the virus doesn’t spread to others. To make vaccination part of your holiday routine, it’s important to:
- Plan ahead: Book your child’s appointment at a local clinic or pharmacy early.
- Integrate it into your schedule: Combine vaccination appointments with other errands.
- Create a positive experience: Offer small rewards, explain the importance of vaccines, and bring distractions like a favorite toy.
Addressing Coughs, Colds, and Common Concerns
Vaccines are the best defense against illness but don’t guarantee 100% protection. Even with immunity, there’s a small chance of getting sick, especially if the vaccine’s effectiveness is lower for certain strains or if your immune system doesn’t respond strongly.
While most colds in children are mild, they can still add to the holiday stress. It’s natural to want quick fixes like cough or cold medicines, but most children recover independently, and medications rarely speed up recovery.
Some over-the-counter cough and cold medicines can have serious side effects, especially in infants and young children. However, there are safer options to consider:
● Non-drug treatments work well: Encourage plenty of fluids, use saline nasal drops or sprays, and try a cool-mist humidifier to ease congestion.
● Use medications cautiously: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with fever or discomfort, but always follow dosage instructions. Avoid over-the-counter cold medicines for children under 4 years old.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most sniffles and coughs don’t require a trip to the doctor, some symptoms may indicate a more serious condition. Call a healthcare provider if your child experiences:
● A fever of 100.4°F or higher in infants 2 months or younger or 102°F in older children.
● Labored breathing, including wheezing or visible ribs with each breath.
● Severe headache, ear pain, or signs of dehydration.
● Worsening symptoms or unusual lethargy.
A Holiday Free of Worry
It’s a busy time of year, and the last thing you want added to your list is a sick child. Prioritizing your child’s health will help ensure they can participate in all the celebrations without worrying about getting sick. Whether through timely vaccinations or managing colds effectively, your efforts will keep the holidays merry and bright for the whole family.
So, as you check your list twice, don’t forget to add health to the top.
Sources
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Should You Give Kids Medicine for Coughs and Colds?
