As the new school year begins in San Antonio, classrooms burst with the excitement of new beginnings. Students from all walks come together to learn, grow, and make new friends.
However, with increased social interaction, the risk of contracting common illnesses rises too. While kids are often resilient, exposure to various germs and viruses in school environments can lead to minor health setbacks.
To ensure your child has a healthy and enjoyable back-to-school experience, we’ve compiled a list of seven common illnesses kids may encounter during this season. Read on to learn more about these ailments and how to keep your child healthy!
1. Heat-Related Illnesses
Texas summers can be scorching, and kids are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Ensure your child stays hydrated throughout the day and takes frequent breaks during outdoor play. Dress them in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and avoid peak sun hours when temperatures are at their highest.
2. COVID-19
Although the threat of COVID-19 is still present, the situation has improved compared to last year. Nevertheless, it’s essential to remain cautious. COVID-19 symptoms range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell.
If your child displays symptoms or has been in contact with a COVID-19-positive individual, promptly isolate them from others, seek medical advice, and get them tested.
3. Allergies
Late summer in Texas can trigger allergies due to increased pollen levels and mold spores. Keep an eye out for sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. Limit outdoor activities during peak pollen hours and consult a pediatrician for allergy management strategies.
4. Stomach Bugs
Gastrointestinal infections can quickly spread during late summer, often causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Frequent handwashing and proper food handling practices are crucial in preventing these illnesses. Encourage your kids to avoid sharing food or drinks with others.
5. Tendonitis
Tendonitis, inflammation of tendons connecting muscles to bones, can occur when kids engage in repetitive movements or overuse specific muscle groups. Encourage proper stretching and warm-up routines before physical activities to reduce the risk of tendonitis.
6. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Pink eye is a common contagious eye infection that spreads rapidly in schools and summer camps. Teach your kids not to touch their eyes and face frequently and avoid sharing towels or washcloths with others. If pink eye symptoms appear, seek medical attention promptly.
7. Sprains
With kids actively engaging in physical activities like sports and play, the risk of sprains and tendonitis is ever-present. Sprains occur when ligaments supporting the joints are stretched or torn. Encourage your child to warm up before sports activities, wear appropriate protective gear, and take regular breaks during physical play to reduce the risk of sprain.
Protect Your Child From Illnesses and Injuries With the Help of Kidz Now Urgent Care
As we gear up for the back-to-school season in Texas, we must be aware of the common illnesses that may affect our children. Encourage your little ones to practice good hygiene habits, such as regular handwashing and not sharing personal items, to reduce their risk of contracting these ailments. In addition, make sure your child’s vaccinations are up to date, as they are crucial for preventing certain diseases.
At Kidz Now Urgent Care, we understand how important your child’s health is to you. If your little one is experiencing a non-emergency illness or injury, our caring and experienced team is here to help. We offer various pediatric urgent care services to help you keep your child safe and well.
Schedule an appointment or visit our pediatric urgent care clinic on FM 78 for the first signs of the abovementioned health concerns and injuries.