Flu season is here and if you and your family have been lucky enough to
avoid the dreaded lurgy, then there are ways to ensure that your good
luck continues. While getting the flu shot has been the go-to options
for many moms, it’s not a hundred percent guarantee that your family
will remain flu-free through the winter. Here are some tips on how to
keep your students from getting ill. Annually more than 22 million school
days are lost thanks to the common flu. This year, the strains have been
particularly unctuous and the number of lost days is sure to be higher
than usual. The best thing to do when you suspect your student may be
coming down with something is to keep them at home. Sure, it may not be
the most convenient thing to do, but you need to be considerate of all
the other students too.
Prevention is better than cure
It’s never too late for a flu shot. While the vaccine takes 2 weeks
to be effective, you can still benefit from getting a shot this late in
the season. Children older than 18 months are eligible for a flu shot
which you can get at a pediatrician’s office, walk-in clinic and
many pharmacies. Getting the flu shot doesn’t mean you are immune
to the disease and it’s still a good idea to teach your kids to
cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing and to wash their hands regularly.
Caution against sharing candy, food or drinks as this is a great way to
spread germs.
If your child gets sick
Although the flu is not a major cause of death among children, the current
strains of flu are particularly nasty and its best to see a doctor when
your student is ill. Ensure that they get as much rest as possible and
keep them well hydrated. Along with the doctor-recommended medications,
you can also use natural remedies to sooth symptoms. Ginger root is great
for upset stomachs and fevers. Slice ginger into boiling water to make
a ginger tea and add honey to sooth sore throats and relieve coughs. Honey
is an antibacterial and antifungal too! The agent that gives garlic its
distinct flavour is called alliin and it doubles as a decongestant and
an antibacterial. Take 3 grams of Echinacea daily to help speed recovery.
Echinacea is also an effective preventative measure, so take it throughout
the winter. Red peppers have one of the highest levels of vitamin C contents
and they contain capsicum which stimulates the flow of mucus and is effective
in reducing congestion.
