Navigating Infections as Kids Return to School: Expert Tips from Pediatricians
As the summer season draws to a close, families prepare for the return to preschool and school. However, with this transition, comes the inevitable challenge of managing infections among children. Dr. Jorge Sotoca, a pediatrician at Kry, emphasizes that avoiding infections completely can be a tough feat when children gather indoors after spending months outside.
"With everyone in the same place breathing the same air, the spread of viruses becomes a significant concern," Dr. Sotoca explains. The seasonal change pushes families back into indoor environments, which intrinsically increases the risk of illness as shared spaces become saturated with germs.
For many parents, it may seem like their child is constantly unwell, but Dr. Sotoca reassures that this is part of the childhood experience. "It’s completely normal for children to contract about 10 to 15 harmless viral infections each year. During their early years, they are essentially working to build up their immune system by being exposed to a variety of viruses that help develop their antibody library. This process takes time," he notes.
To mitigate the chances of illness, Dr. Sotoca shares sound advice for parents: "The best preventative measures include spending more time outdoors and maintaining good hygiene practices, specifically frequent handwashing. It’s also crucial for both parents and children to stay home from school or work when they are feeling unwell to prevent the spread of infections."
During the pandemic, a shift occurred where fewer people felt obligated to attend work or school while sick. Dr. Sotoca observes, "Now, there seems to be a growing acceptance of attending school even with a mild cold. However, it remains important to prioritize health by staying home if symptoms arise."
Recognizing when to seek help is another aspect of maintaining health during this season. If a child experiences repeated severe infections or shows signs of significant general distress, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. "Kry offers accessible support for concerned parents. We provide reassurance and guidance on symptom relief options, and in some cases, we can evaluate your child through a video call to determine if more intensive treatment is necessary," Dr. Sotoca advises.
Kry stands out as a health service that offers 24/7 access to pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and child psychologists. With the ability to seek care digitally or at one of the 30 physical care centers across the country, Kry aims to ensure that health care visits are convenient and, importantly, free for children.
As school season begins again, implementing simple health strategies can help ease the transition and promote a healthier environment for children. By fostering good habits and encouraging outdoor play, families can minimize the risks associated with returning to school after a long summer break.
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