How to Help Protect Children From Infections During the School Season

Winter and the return to schools and nurseries bring renewed concern about colds, flu and other respiratory infections among children. With children spending time together indoors, awareness of everyday prevention measures becomes especially important.

Regular handwashing with soap and water is a simple protective habit. Parents can also encourage children to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, and to use a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Children should avoid sharing cups, utensils and other personal items. Cleaning frequently touched surfaces and improving indoor ventilation can also help reduce opportunities for infections to spread at home and in classrooms.

Keeping recommended vaccinations up to date, supporting adequate sleep and offering balanced meals are important parts of caring for children’s health. Changing temperatures may coincide with respiratory illness season, but colds and flu are caused by viruses, not temperature changes alone.

If a child becomes unwell, keeping them home when appropriate can help protect classmates and nursery staff. Parents should seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or cause concern, and obtain urgent care for breathing difficulties.