It often feels like flu season and the winter holidays are always on a collision course. Getting sick, coming down with the flu, or feeling under the weather are very common during the winter season, especially for children, but all is not lost. All it takes is a few very simple habits that will help your child stay healthy during the winter and reduce the likelihood of coming down with a cold and having to take the kids to the pediatrician.

1. Make Sure the Whole Family Washes Their Hands Regularly

We know it’s mandatory for food service workers and anyone who works with the public to wash their hands regularly. However, it’s good practice even if you’re not a public service worker or someone who interacts with customers.

According to the CDC, 4.6% of kids aged five to 11 missed at least 11 days of school in the past year because of an injury or illness. Getting the whole family into the habit of frequently washing their hands may have a noticeably positive impact on reducing wintertime colds and unexpected trips to the pediatrician.

2. Avoid Crowded Indoor Areas

As tempting as it may seem to bring your child to the sale at your local big box store, the trip could have you and your kid walking into a cloud of respiratory illnesses, the flu, and other pathogens. One of the reasons we see more colds in the winter is because everyone starts staying indoors, making it easier to spread colds.

This is very true in places like busy grocery stores, the mall, and anywhere inside with a lot of people. Try to avoid remaining inside a store for too long to limit your child’s exposure to potentially sick individuals. Try to shop during odd hours or when stores aren’t busy.

3. Don’t Let Your Kids Touch Everything and Anything

When children are in a new, enticing place, like a store full of holiday toys, they can’t help touching everything. However, this is a sure way to spread and catch illness. Teach your child to limit what they touch and to avoid touching their face while out in public.

Consider visiting us at Pediatrix for more information about how to keep your kids healthy this winter season. Our pediatrician is also here for you should your child get sick.

Posted 1/11/24