AS CHILDREN head back to the classroom after the Christmas holidays families are being reminded of the steps they can take to ensure the healthiest start to this term.
The new year brings with it an opportunity to teach children about the importance of good hygiene and with the recent increase in cases of flu and high levels of norovirus, it’s more important than ever.
The latest surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that flu activity continued to increase over the Christmas break, with hospitalisations also increasing.
And figures are expected to rise further as children go back to school and many return to the workplace.
However, the UKHSA West Midlands Health Protection Team are urging families to take note of simple steps to reduce the spread of infections and protect households and classrooms from illness this New Year.
Stomach bugs spread easily in schools, nurseries, and households.
If you are unwell, you should avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to avoid passing on the infection to those who are more vulnerable.
Do not to return to school, nursery or work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.
Regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, or using hand sanitiser when convenient, is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs.
Parents are encouraged to lead by example and encourage good hygiene habits such as using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, as well as washing hands regularly with soap and warm water – especially after toilet visits and before eating.
The UKHSA say alcohol gels don’t kill all bugs so don’t rely on these.
Time off school can disrupt learning and also be an inconvenience for parents and carers having to stay off work.
The UKHSA say children can stay in school with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, or slight cough if otherwise well and do not have a high temperature but should stay home if they’re displaying symptoms such as having a fever. If your child has diarrhoea and vomiting, they should stay home for at least 48 hours after these symptoms clear up.
Anyone with symptoms of flu or Covid-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy,should try to limit your contact with others.
If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, you are advised to wear a face covering.
Last year, falling vaccination rates among young children resulted in a widespread measles outbreak in England, which is why it’s important to check children are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations, which protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, and polio.
If parents are unsure of their child’s vaccination status, they can check their child’s red book or contact their local GP.
Paul Fisher, consultant in Health Protection with UKHSA West Midlands, said: “As children return to school for the new term, it’s important that they get off to the best start possible for the New Year. School attendance is important, not just for your child’s academic achievement, but for their wellbeing and wider development. There are simple steps you can take to help stop the spread of nasty illness in the next few weeks.
“Each winter, we see an increase in acute respiratory and gastro-intestinal illnesses, however it only takes simple steps to reduce the spread of most of these infections. By following advice on good hygiene habits, knowing when to keep your child off school and taking up the opportunity to get vaccinated, parents are protecting their children and the wider school community.”
