Stop Infections In Its Tracks

The chilly weather is coming, bringing cold and flu seasons, not to mention ear and throat infections. The best way to keep your kids healthy through the season is to consistently eliminate sources of common diseases. Help kids stay well to begin with. Here are some quick tips:

• Teach kids to wash their hands with soap and warm water after playing and before eating. They should scrub for 30 seconds. Maybe you can create a 30 second song for when they wash hands!
• Use alcohol-based hand wipes or hand gels when you can't get to a sink. Avoid those with triclosan, an antibacterial agent that kills only weaker bacteria. 
• Show your child how to cough into her sleeve, and use tissues instead of her hands to wipe her nose.
• Have each family member use his/her own towel.
• Clean all wounds properly: Flush for one minute with running water, wash with soap, rinse, and cover with a bandage until healed.
• Make sure your kids are eating a healthy diet, full of vitamins that will help boost their immune systems.  
• Lastly, consult your pediatrician on best ways to keep your kids healthy. 

 Source: Redbook and Shine