Sick Season Is Here: What Parents Need to Know

School is back in session, routines are changing, and kids are spending more time together—which also means germs are making their rounds!

Fall often brings an increase in runny noses, coughs, fevers, sore throats, stomach bugs, RSV, flu, and other common childhood illnesses.

While we can’t prevent every illness, a few simple habits can help:

• Encourage frequent handwashing.
• Teach children to cover coughs and sneezes.

Avoid sharing drinks and utensils.

Make sleep a priority.

Encourage plenty of water.

Keep children home when they are sick.

And remember, getting sick occasionally is a normal part of childhood.

One of the hardest parts for parents is deciding when a child needs to be seen. If your child is having trouble breathing, isn’t drinking well, seems unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, has signs of dehydration, or simply seems much sicker than you would expect, contact your pediatric provider.

You know your child best. If something doesn’t seem right, we’re always happy to help.

Here’s to a healthy sick season!

NEED AN APPOINTMENT? If you’re unsure whether your child needs to be seen, give our office a call. We’re here to answer questions, help you decide the next step, and care for your child when they need us.