As children head back to school, they are exposed to various germs and illnesses. The AFC Urgent Care Louisville team offers some essential tips to help your family stay healthy and minimize the risk of getting sick during the school year.

Practice Good Hygiene Habits

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness is by practicing good hygiene. Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing. Proper hand washing should involve scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, covering all surfaces of the hands.

In addition to handwashing, encourage your child to avoid touching their face, especially their eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are common entry points for germs. Provide them with hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol for times when soap and water are not readily available.

Boost Immune System with Nutrition

A strong immune system is key to fighting off infections. Ensure your child eats a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function.

Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as excess sugar can weaken the immune system. Instead, opt for healthy snacks like yogurt, nuts, or cut-up fruits. Encourage your child to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water.

Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a critical step in preventing serious illnesses such as measles, mumps, rubella, whooping cough, and flu. Check with your healthcare provider to ensure your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date according to the recommended schedule.

Some schools may require certain vaccinations for enrollment, so it’s essential to stay informed about state and school vaccination requirements.

Back-to-School Health Checklist

• Schedule a Well-Child Checkup: Visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville for a back-to-school physical and ensure your child is in good health before the school year begins.

• Teach Proper Cough Etiquette: Encourage your child to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.

• Disinfect Commonly Touched Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect items such as backpacks, lunchboxes, desks, and doorknobs to reduce the spread of germs.

• Monitor Symptoms: Stay vigilant for signs of illness in your child, such as fever, cough, sore throat, or fatigue, and seek medical attention if necessary.

By following these tips, you can help protect your child from illness and ensure they have a healthy and successful school year. Prevention is key to avoiding missed school days and maintaining overall well-being. AFC Urgent Care Louisville is here to support your family’s health needs throughout the school year.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville for vaccinations, physicals, and medical care. Our dedicated team is committed to keeping your family healthy. Here’s to a safe and illness-free school year!