Four Steps to Protect Your Kids from Germs this Fall

The great month of October brings pumpkins, apple pie, Halloween festivities and so much more. The month also kicks of something spookier than Halloween – flu & cold season. While flu season gets a lot of attention there are other childhood illnesses that we need to be aware of, especially during this time of year.

One of these common contagious illnesses to be aware of is Coxsackie. Like the flu, Coxsackie is transmitted through saliva and mucus and the symptoms are similar at first. Also known as hand-foot-and-mouth disease, some of the first symptoms include mild fever, poor appetite and a sore throat. Then blister-like lesions on the tongue and gums develop. Sneezes, unwashed toys, and germy hands transmit this highly contagious viral infection. Rest and fluids are enough to zap many strains, though some rare forms can affect the heart and brain.

How do you protect your child from Coxsackie and other viruses this season? Here are four daily preventive steps to go over with your children:

1. We tell our kids this all year long – “wash your hands!” This month it is important to stress it even more. Schedule a time to have a hand wash lesson. Go over the steps to properly wash hands to prevent the spread of germs:
   1. Use soap and water
   2. Sing the entire alphabet while they wash to ensure they removed all germs
   3. Avoid touching sinks and other areas of the bathroom after

1. During the school day tell them to try to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

3. Regularly clean items that your children have contact with. This includes toys, pacifiers, and any items they may place in their mouths or touch.

1. Lastly, show your kids how to use their elbow to cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of germs.

To make sure other parents are aware of Coxsackie symptoms and others visit Sick Bags to bring awareness to common childhood illnesses. Carry a bag and you will help a kid.