Keeping Kids Healthy

January 20th, 2010

Five ways to protect your family during cold and flu season

by: Dr. JJ Levenstein

Preventing Colds and Flu

Bundle kids up and go outside instead of hanging out in germ-ridden indoor playgrounds, malls and other densely populated areas.
Teach kids to wash their hands frequently with soap and warm running water for 20 seconds.
Use disinfectant furniture wipes around surfaces such as doorknobs and shopping carts.
Keep a sick child at home and avoid traveling until she’s feeling better–typically 24 hours after her fever is gone.

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s a pediatrician and mom, I know the flu often favors little ones who aren’t overly concerned about catching a bug when they’re jumping into a ball pit at an indoor playground. Fortunately, in addition to getting them the flu vaccine, there are a number of things parents can do to keep kids healthy and bug-free during cold and flu season.

1. Steer clear of indoor areas

Indoor areas that bring together a large number of people are a hotbed for germs. That’s because the flu virus spreads easily when respiratory droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze move through the air to the mouth or nose of others in close proximity. If possible, instead of frequenting areas such as indoor playgrounds or malls, usher your kids outdoors to enjoy the fresh air if temperatures aren’t too cold.

2. Cover mouths and wash hands ... >>

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1. Steer clear of indoor areas