Back-to-School Health Tips

Getting children ready to go back to school requires organization and attention to not only buying new clothes and supplies but also making sure health requirements are met. Sugar Land emergency facilities have an on-site diagnostic laboratory to test for common childhood illnesses, including flu, strep throat, and respiratory syncytial virus. These illnesses often occur at the time school starts in the fall.

If you are concerned about keeping your child healthy as school starts and during the school term, there are several ways to lower the chances of contracting an illness. If your child does become ill, doctors at a Sugar Land emergency care clinic are available 24 hours a day throughout the year.

Personal Hygiene

Many diseases are transmitted by direct contact with an infected person. Washing hands is a simple way to lower the chance of transmitting or catching an illness. Thousands of germs are released into the air and onto nearby surfaces when someone coughs or sneezes. Children and adults should always wash after coughing into their hands, sneezing, blowing their nose, or being around someone who has these symptoms.

Teach your children to wash their hands after using the bathroom and before eating. Washing with hot water and soap for approximately 20 seconds keeps germs at bay. At home, make sure supplies are available to older children. Help younger children wash between their fingers and under their nails. Rinse well with running water, and dry hands thoroughly. If you are in a situation where water is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol.

Adults should always wash their hands after changing a baby’s diaper, handling garbage, or caring for a person who is ill. Hands should be washed before and after using the restroom, handling food, or treating a wound.

Vaccinations

Most states require that children be vaccinated to enroll in public schools. Many private schools also require proof of immunization. As part of Sugar Land emergency services, vaccines, and inoculations that are required by local school districts and health agencies are recommended for your children.

If Your Child Is Ill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children who have symptoms of flu, including fever, listlessness, rapid breathing, gray skin, or vomiting, should seek immediate medical care. Keep your child separated from others to prevent transmitting the illness. The doctors at St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms analyze the symptoms and create an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the symptoms, we may test for bacterial infections, respiratory syncytial virus, or other infections.

You can count on fast, precise care at St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms. Our waiting time is usually less than 15 minutes. Our Sugar Land emergency clinic treats everything from broken bones to allergies. If your child is injured, has difficulty breathing, or has a high fever, contact us at 281.980.4357. You can also bring your child directly to our clinic. We recommend pre-registering so that vital information is on file in case of a Sugar Land emergency.