Colds and flu are common illnesses that can affect people of all ages but children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems.

Colds and flu are caused by viruses that spread easily from person to person, usually as a result of close contact or touching contaminated surfaces. Children are exposed to viruses on a regular basis, however, you can take steps to help your child avoid getting sick.

1. Teach Good Hygiene Habits

Good hygiene habits are an effective means of reducing your child’s exposure to viruses and bacteria. Teach your child to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating or after using the toilet.

Encourage your child to cover their mouth and nose when they sneeze or cough, either by using a tissue or coughing into their elbow.

2. Keep Your Home Clean

Viruses and bacteria can linger on surfaces for hours or even days. Ensure that surfaces that are touched frequently, such as door handles, light switches and tabletops, are cleaned regularly with disinfectant.

Toys and other items that are handled often should also be cleaned regularly. Use a disinfectant or soap and water to clean these items.

3. Encourage a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help to boost your child’s immune system. Encourage your child to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains and lean protein sources.

You should also try to limit their intake of sugary and processed foods which can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections.

4. Ensure Your Child Gets Enough Sleep

Sleep is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. Ensure that your child gets enough sleep each night. The amount of sleep required varies depending on age, with younger children requiring more sleep than older children and teens.

Encourage your child to establish a consistent sleep routine to ensure they get enough sleep every night.

5. Keep Your Child Home When They Are Sick

If your child is sick, keep them home from school or daycare until they are feeling better. This can help to prevent the spread of the illness to other children.

It is also important to teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze, and to dispose of used tissues properly.

6. Consider Getting Your Child Vaccinated

Vaccinations can help to protect your child from common illnesses such as flu. Talk to your health care provider about which vaccinations are recommended for your child, and when they should receive them.

7. Avoid Contact with Sick People

Avoiding contact with sick people can help to reduce the risk of your child picking up a virus or infection. This is particularly important during flu season when the risk of catching the flu is high.

If someone in your family is sick, try to keep them isolated from other family members.

8. Consider Taking Supplements

Some supplements, such as vitamin C and zinc, may help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of developing infections.

Talk to your child’s doctor before giving them any supplements, as some may interact with other medications or cause unwanted side effects.

9. Teach Your Child to Avoid Touching their Face

Viruses and bacteria can enter the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth. Teach your child to avoid touching their face, as this can help to prevent the spread of germs.

This is particularly important if your child has been in contact with someone who is sick.

10. Stay Informed

Stay informed about the latest cold and flu outbreaks in your area. This can help you to take appropriate measures to protect your child from the virus. If you are concerned that your child may have a cold or flu, talk to their doctor for advice.