When kids head back to school, they’re often exposed to more germs, which can result in cold and flu viruses. But with a few precautionary measures, you can help prevent illness and keep the whole family healthy this school year. Here’s how:
1. Encourage Frequent Handwashing
Teach children to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after returning home from school. Hand sanitizer can be used as an alternative when soap and water aren’t available.
2. Promote Healthy Eating Habits
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps strengthen the immune system. Foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and broccoli, can boost immunity.
3. Ensure Adequate Sleep
Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Ensure your children get the recommended amount of sleep for their age group. For school-aged children, this is usually 9-11 hours per night.
4. Stay Hydrated
Encourage your children to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps maintain the body’s defense against illness.
5. Teach Proper Sneezing and Coughing Etiquette
Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when sneezing or coughing. This helps prevent the spread of germs to others.
6. Regularly Clean and Disinfect Common Areas
Wipe down frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops. This reduces the chances of germs lingering around the home.
7. Limit Exposure to Sick Individuals
If someone in the household or at school is sick, try to minimize contact and encourage your child to maintain personal space. This can reduce the risk of catching the illness.
8. Stay Active
Regular physical activity boosts the immune system. Encourage your kids to be active, whether it’s through outdoor play or structured activities like sports.
9. Improve Indoor Air Quality
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor. While practicing healthy habits can greatly help reduce the chances of getting sick, a whole-house air filtration system expertly installed by Zach’s Heating & Cooling can do even more. Installed in your existing ductwork, an air filtration system can rid your home of up to 99% of airborne pollutants, including viruses, germs, and bacteria, greatly improving the quality of the air you breathe.
Contact Zach Heating & Cooling today to schedule an in-home appointment and a free, custom proposal.