Helping Your Child with Common Winter Illnesses
As winter sets in, many children tend to catch colds, sore throats, coughs, flu, and sometimes even stomach bugs. It's natural for parents to feel concerned when their little ones are unwell.
With winter germs circulating, parents often turn to Frimley Healthier Together for guidance on whether their child is fit to continue their usual activities. For some kids, a dose of paracetamol and a trip to school or nursery is fine. For others, resting at home might be the best option to recover and prevent spreading germs.
If you’re unsure whether your child should stay home due to their symptoms, you can check the Frimley Healthier Together website or app. They offer easy-to-understand advice on common childhood illnesses, helping you decide when your child can return to their usual routine, when they should rest, and how to treat their symptoms, including self-care tips and information on how long symptoms might last.
Tips to Prepare for Winter Illnesses:
- Flu Vaccination: It’s not too late to protect your child from the flu!
- If your child is aged 2-3 (before September 2024), you can still book a flu vaccination at your GP surgery.
- For school-aged children who haven't had their flu vaccination, reach out to the school nursing team for details on booking.
- Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with NHS guidelines on common childhood conditions. This will help you know when to seek further medical help.
- Stay Informed: Check our guide on symptoms to see whether your child can attend their usual activities or should stay home to recover.
- Stock Up on Medications: Keep children’s paracetamol and ibuprofen handy by picking some up during your next trip to the pharmacy or supermarket.
- Get Connected: Bookmark Frimley Healthier Together in your browser or download the Healthier Together App on your device for easy access to important information.
By staying informed and prepared, you can help your child navigate winter illnesses with confidence!