As children return to school after the summer holidays, parents are bracing themselves for the inevitable onset of common school-related illnesses. According to Dr John Burke, Chief Medical Officer for AXA Health and a GP, children are highly susceptible to illnesses like colds and flu due to their less mature immune systems compared to adults.
Dr Burke has identified the five most common back-to-school illnesses parents should watch out for: the common cold, flu, Norovirus, tonsillitis, and chickenpox. He recommends specific ways to prevent and treat these illnesses. This advice includes practising good hygiene by teaching kids to cover their mouths when coughing, keeping up with vaccinations, avoiding the spread of viruses, embracing fresh air to boost immunity, and maintaining a healthy diet.
For parents wondering how to relieve symptoms, Dr Burke suggests allowing the child to rest, maintaining hydration levels with clear fluids or ice lollies, and administering pain relief like ibuprofen or paracetamol following dosage instructions carefully. He also advises keeping meals bland to avoid upsetting the stomach and ensuring the child eats to maintain energy levels.
While it’s challenging to completely avoid colds and viruses in school environments, following these preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of children falling ill. With the support of proper hygiene practices, vaccinations, nutritious diets, and thoughtful symptom management, families can better protect themselves during the back-to-school season.