Back to school means meeting new friends, learning new things, but it can also mean having the first contact with new germs.
According Saint Mary’s doctor Jenny Wilson, more doctor visits and missed school days happen because of common cold than any other illness.
“There are more germs in water fountains and cafeteria trays than there in toilet seats,” says Wilson. “Be aware of not touching your face, not putting things in your mouth, not eating food off the cafeteria tray, getting immunize,” says Wilson.
There is no way to avoid germs, but as well as keeping good eating and sleeping habits, there are a few things you can teach your kids and protect your family. Making sure immunizations are up do date is also something parents should be aware of.
“If your child is sick, please keep them home, I know you have to go to work, have errands to run, but if you send your child to school sick, they are going to get other kids sick and other parents will also have that problem,” says Wilson.
