How to Stay Healthy When Your Child is Sick

Caring for a sick child can put your immune system on the front lines when it comes to defending your body against germs and bacteria. Use these tips to keep you healthy while you nurse your mini-me back to health.

Wash Your Hands, Often

Washing your hands is one of your first lines of defense against the germs and viruses that can get you, and the rest of your family, sick—reducing your odds of getting falling ill by 16-21 percent.

While most people know that handwashing is an important step in preventing the spread of bacteria and germs, studies have shown that only about 3% of people wash their hands properly. Follow these steps, outlined by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to keep your hands germ-free :

• Wet your hands with clean, running water.
• Lather your hands with soap, making sure you get soap on the back of your hands and underneath your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. To help keep track of how long you’re scrubbing, sing the “Happy Birthday” song in your head twice.
• Rinse your hands with clean, running water.
• Dry your hands with a clean towel.

Wipe Down Communal Surfaces

From the bathroom countertop to the dining room table, no frequently used surface is safe from the passage of germs. Break out the cleansing sprays and wipes that have the word disinfectant written on the packaging. This means they use bacteria-fighting ingredients like bleach and ammonia that can effectively ward off illness-causing germs.

Some germ hot-spots to wipe down include:

• Door handles
• Kitchen counters
• Kitchen sink
• Refrigerator handles
• Bathroom sinks
• Showers and tubs
• Microwave handle
• Remotes and gaming controllers

Don’t Share

Many of us instill the idea that “sharing is caring” in our children—however, when they’re under the weather, it’s best to be a little selfish with personal items. Bacteria and germs are easily transferred from our hands to surfaces, and onto others. It’s best to give your sick child their own toys, bath towels, and pillowcases to avoid spreading their sickness to the rest of your family.

Primary Care in Jackson, Wilson, and Teton County

From family medicine to internal medicine, our Primary Care Providers (PCP) are here to openly listen to your concerns and work with you to achieve overall better health and wellness. Visit our website to see the types of primary care we provide or to find a doctor today!