Preventing Childhood Coughs & Colds

The viruses that cause coughs and colds spread rapidly among children. Not least among the causes for the rapid spread is the natural preoccupation children have with their noses. Wiping or poking at them with their hands, then touching their friends, or objects that are shared, allows the rapid spread of germs, since cold germs can remain active on skin and hard surfaces for many hours. Here are ways to help reduce your child’s likelihood of catching a cold weather illness:

• Help his immune system become fighting fit by ensuring he eats healthy foods, including lots of fruit and vegetables, high quality protein and whole grains. Adding more Vitamin Ccontaining fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk of catching a cold.
• Teach your child to cover her mouth with her hand or a handkerchief when she coughs or sneezes. This will help prevent the spread of cold germs.
• Teach the importance of not touching the nose, mouth or eyes, and explain why it is a good idea not to share food or drinks.
• Most importantly, encourage your child to wash his hands often and always before eating and after blowing his nose or blocking a cough or sneeze. Praise him when he remembers.