Preparing for winter illnesses

 

Seasonal illnesses in children can be stressful for families, but most of these illnesses are mild and will resolve spontaneously. Parents and children should make the best of their times together, even when children are sick. Use sick days as opportunities to read together, listen to music, and talk with your children. Love and attention are powerful medicines. While at times an inconvenience, sick days well spent can result in lasting memories for children and their parents.  

 

Winter illnesses are an inevitable part of childhood. While immunizations and good hand-washing can prevent some illnesses, winter illnesses should be expected in all children. To be prepared, parents should keep on hand acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Motrin) for treatment of fevers, a large box of soft tissues for runny noses, and, for young children, a stock of oral rehydration solution. Parents with children in daycare should also make plans for picking up children should they become ill on a weekday, and plan ahead for alternative childcare arrangements if needed. Parents with questions or concerns about their child’s illness should call their child’s health care provider.