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From leaves changing color and shorter days to pumpkins and apple cider donuts, there are many things to like about the fall. An increase in colds and flu isn’t one of them, however.
With school back in session and cooler weather, the number of viruses circulating — and the chances of you and your family getting sick — go up. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to try to keep everyone as healthy as possible.
Whether your child has caught an illness, needs a well-child visit or is struggling with another health issue, our team at Angel Kids Pediatrics can help. Plus, healthcare access is easy and convenient thanks to our 10 offices located throughout Jacksonville, Amelia Island, and Saint Johns, Florida, along with our telehealth option.
About cold and flu infections
While colds and flu are contagious respiratory illnesses and often cause similar symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, and cough, they are caused by different viruses. Colds are typically milder than the flu, but both can leave your entire family feeling miserable.
5 Ways to stay healthy this winter
While it may not be possible to avoid all illnesses, there are proactive things you can do to reduce your family’s chances of coming down with the latest bug circulating at school or daycare. These actions can also help prevent it from spreading from one family member to another.
1. Practice good hygiene
Washing hands for at least 20 seconds before eating and after sneezing, coughing, or using the bathroom kills illness-causing germs. Hand sanitizer can also be helpful if soap isn’t available.
Teach young children to avoid touching their faces, which can spread viruses on their hands into their eyes, nose, and mouth. When they’re sick, encourage them to cough or sneeze into a tissue or their elbow to prevent the further spread of germs.
2. Maintain healthy habits
Eating healthy foods like fruits and vegetables can support immune system function. Stay active with regular physical play time or exercise. Make sure babies, children, and teens get the proper amount of sleep, too.
3. Keep it clean
Disinfect common surfaces like door handles, phones, and toys frequently. Keep indoor air clean by opening windows or using air purifiers to improve circulation and dilute germs.
4. Get vaccinated
Vaccinations can help keep the whole family healthy by decreasing the chance of getting sick and reducing illness severity if they do catch the latest infection. Discuss flu shots, Covid-19 boosters, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunizations (in the case of young babies) with our team early to get the best coverage for the coming cold and flu season.
5. Be prepared
Watch for local health updates and recommendations. In addition, know when to call your doctor at Angel Kids Pediatrics for a same-day sick visit if illness does occur.
Expert illness care when you need it
It’s not possible to prevent every single sniffle or cough that goes around, but there are actions that can reduce illness frequency. And when illness strikes? We can help. Schedule a visit at your nearest Angel Kids Pediatrics office in Jacksonville, Amelia Island, or Saint Johns, Florida, today.