5 Tips To Staying Healthy During The Flu Season

After the Labour Day weekend the kids are back in school. With cooler days and fall approaching it seems for some people it's a shock to their immune systems. It could be the added stress of getting the kids and yourself in a back to school routine.

This is a good time to remind the kids about swine flu, H1N1 and other flu or cold illnesses. The swine flu should be treated with the same precautionary measures as with any viral illnesses.

Here are 5 important reminder tips to take and share with your kids for the upcoming flu season.

1. Frequent hand washing with soap and warm water. If soap and water is not available, use a hand sanitizer or wipe. It's a good idea to pack these in their backpacks.

I know it can be difficult when the kids are in school. Sometimes they just don't get the chance to wash their hands before eating their snack or lunch. If that's the case, tell your child to pick up their sandwich with a napkin or use the wrapper the sandwich was wrapped in.

Remind your child when they wash their hands to wash between the fingers, on top of the hand and up to their wrists. Have them sing the alphabet or Happy Birthday song and then rinse well.

2. Cough or sneeze into your elbow. Avoid touching the face - eyes, nose and mouth.

3. Stay away from people who are sick. I know this is difficult for kids in school whose desks can be close together. Sick children and adults should remain at home.

4. Boost their and your immune system. Get plenty of rest and keep stress at a minimum. Exercise regularly and kids should play outside at recess and lunch hours. Send your child to school with weather appropriate clothes or accessories like a hat and or umbrella.

Avoid giving your children sugary snacks and foods. Pack more fresh vegetables and fruits in their lunch box.

For adults: Echinacea works, but it's also a herb and it should be taken with caution as it's not suitable for everyone.

For children: A vitamin supplement is beneficial.

5. Disinfect hard surfaces with household disinfectants. Viruses remain on door handles, countertops, chairs, tables, toys, computer mouse, textbooks, pens, pencils, calculators, backpacks, lunch boxes, etc.