Protecting Your Family from Back to School Germs

Ready or not, back-to-school season is here, and kids will be bringing home more than homework. They’ll be carrying germs, too. These viruses and bacteria are responsible for illnesses like the common cold, influenza, norovirus, strep throat, and even COVID-19. It’s no wonder boxes of tissues and sanitizing wipes are on most school supply lists.

As a nursing professor specializing in public health promotion, I’ve dedicated years to educating the public on preventing the spread of infectious diseases, especially during flu and COVID-19 seasons.

COVID-19 Cases on the Rise

In the midst of a summer wave, COVID-19 cases have been steadily increasing across the country. With rising temperatures forcing people indoors, the number of infections is expected to continue growing. This trend is likely to extend into the upcoming school year.

Currently, dominant COVID-19 variants, such as KP.3 and KP.3.1.1, are circulating and spreading more easily than previous strains. Coupled with relaxed isolation guidelines from the CDC, disease transmission, including the flu and COVID-19, is expected to rise in classrooms.

Good Hygiene Practices Reduce Spread

Following proper hygiene practices, such as respiratory etiquette, hand-washing, and vaccination, can significantly reduce the spread of infectious diseases in schools. Cough and sneeze hygiene, in particular, can limit the transmission of viruses by respiratory droplets.

Hand-washing is crucial in preventing the spread of illnesses, as up to 80% of diseases are spread through touch. By maintaining good hand hygiene, schools can reduce absenteeism and illness rates among students and staff.

Health Care Providers Advocate for Vaccination

Keeping children up to date on vaccinations is essential for controlling disease transmission. Vaccines not only protect individuals but also contribute to herd immunity, reducing infection rates across communities.

Receiving the flu and COVID-19 vaccines simultaneously, when possible, is recommended by health authorities. A new combination vaccine targeting both influenza and COVID-19 has shown promising results in clinical trials, offering increased efficacy and convenience.

Keeping Sick Kids Home

The most effective way to prevent the spread of germs in schools is by keeping sick children at home. School guidelines typically recommend keeping children home if they have a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or are generally unwell. Returning to school should only occur once symptoms have subsided for at least 24 hours.

Boosting Immune System Through Healthy Habits

Prioritizing healthy habits, such as adequate sleep, physical activity, and nutritious eating, can bolster the immune system and reduce the risk of illness. These practices benefit individuals of all ages and contribute to overall well-being.

By following these guidelines and fostering a culture of health and safety, families can navigate the back-to-school season with confidence and reduce the transmission of infectious diseases in their communities.

Written by Libby Richards, Professor of Nursing, Purdue University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.