The holiday season brings communities together and a festive and joyous spirit to all. However, large gatherings, sharing food at communal tables, and the colder weather also make it an easy time to get sick.
By taking a few simple measures recommended by Rainilda Valencia, MD, Deepika Saini, MD, FAAP, and our pediatric team from Valencia Pediatrics in Victorville, California, you can reduce the risk of your child getting sick over the holidays.
Here are five steps to consider this Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Potentially dangerous viruses like the flu, COVID, and RSV are more common during the winter. All of these illnesses can cause severe complications and require hospitalization.
Your child’s best defense against these viruses is to ensure they’re up to date on their vaccines. Children older than six months need a new flu vaccine every fall, and children five years and up should get their annual COVID booster at the same time.
Our team also checks to make sure your child is up to date on all other vaccines and can get them caught up if needed. You can further protect your whole household by encouraging all members to get every vaccine recommended for their age group.
Viruses spread by being in close contact with sick people. Others can pass on a virus without showing symptoms, so good hygiene is always important.
Teach and practice good hand washing habits with your child before meals and after shaking hands. You should also help your child learn not to touch their face, especially around their nose and mouth, and to avoid sharing food and drinks.
Holiday traditions are great fun when everyone is healthy. But taking part when they don’t feel well is unpleasant for your child and increases their risk of developing more severe symptoms or passing them on to others.
Stay home and make alternate plans when anyone in your immediate household is sick. You should also avoid any events where a person hosting or attending tells you they’re unwell. Leave gatherings early when someone visibly ill is present.
Face masks can help reduce your child’s exposure to virus-containing droplets and keep them from touching their face. Wearing a face mask is safe for most children two and up.
It’s not necessary to always wear a face mask, and wearing one is a personal decision. Situations where you can consider wearing one include when:
Our team can help you determine if and when face masks are right for your child.
The hustle and bustle around the holiday season can make it harder to keep up with your healthy routines. Make it a priority to maintain immunity-strengthening habits as much as possible.
Ensure your child always has the opportunity to rest so they get enough sleep over the holidays. You should also offer your child healthy foods and opportunities for play that keep them active.
Everyone’s risk of illness rises slightly over the holidays, but the right precautions mean your child is more likely to enjoy the season while healthy. And if your child gets sick, we’re here to help them recover as quickly as possible.
Contact us if your child needs a sick or preventative pediatric care visit around the holidays.
