Winter colds and viruses

StorkLine is a free 24-hour hotline answered by Western Baptist nurses at (270) 575-BABY. Here is a common question.

WINTER COLDS AND VIRUSES

Question: How can I keep my child well this winter? 

Answer: Colds, gastroenteritis (stomach virus) and influenza are prevalent in the winter. The best prevention for influenza for everyone is a flu shot, but you can teach your children how to avoid germs by using these tips:

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or your shirt -- not in your hand or not covering your mouth and nose at all.
• If you inadvertently do cough into your hand, wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer before you touch anything, including yourself.
• Throw used tissues in the trash immediately. Don’t leave them lying around.
• Don’t eat or drink after others. (Wash dishes in the dishwasher when possible or in hot water in the sink.)
• Put hand sanitizer where kids can reach it and let them use it liberally. It’s inexpensive; they like to use it and it keeps their little hands clean.