The start of the new school year signals the anticipated return of sniffles and colds for many families in the UK. According to a study of 1,000 parents of school-aged children, almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of parents are expecting their children to be sent home from school due to illness within the first month. The study found that 60 per cent of parents revealed that their children have taken between one and five days off school within the first month.
With the prospect of children falling ill upon returning to school, over half (55 per cent) of parents are dreading the scenario of their children coming home with a new bug or illness. Additionally, one in five (21 per cent) parents mentioned they have previously caught a cold from their child within the first few weeks of the school term. Nearly half (48 per cent) of parents anticipate that two or three family members may also suffer from the ‘domino cold’ as the illness spreads within the household.
In preparation for the upcoming sniffle season, Olbas has partnered with leading family GP, Dr. Roger Henderson, to provide advice for families. Dr. Henderson highlights the importance of handwashing to reduce the spread of colds and recommends ensuring children rest, eat well, and stay hydrated if they do fall ill. The study revealed that 42 per cent of parents have had to take time off work in the past to care for their children in September.
To proactively address the potential impact of back-to-school illnesses, many parents are already adjusting schedules and planning childcare options. Some are implementing wellness measures such as promoting good hygiene practices (34 per cent), boosting health with vitamins (30 per cent), and taking extra precautions to maintain a sanitised home environment (29 per cent).
Olbas’ Rachel Anthony emphasised the importance of being prepared for the inevitable sniffles, colds, and illnesses that may arise as children return to classrooms. Anthony advised parents to stock up on necessary supplies to help ease the impact on family routines during the transition from summer holidays to the school term. For more information and tips, visit www.olbas.co.uk/help-and-advice.