It starts with a sniffle-next thing you know, the whole household is sneezing, coughing, and passing tissues. Before long, the common cold, or worse, the flu is upon you.
According to the CDC, up to 20% of the population gets the flu each year and the common cold is the number one culprit of stay home sick from school days in kids.
While you can't completely germ-proof your child, (in fact, being exposed to some germs when they are young helps build their immune system), you can separate fact from fiction to keep your family healthier. These are the top 3 cold and flu related myths.
Myth #1-The flu vaccine causes the flu
Truth: Getting a flu shot may cause symptoms that feel like the flu, but the virus contained in the flu shots has been killed or inactivated which means that it won't cause infection. while there may be some achy side effects that can sometimes follow the flu shot, it just means your immune system is responding and processing the vaccine.
Myth #2-Your more likely to get sick if you're cold
Truth: Despite moms warnings that you should bundle up, being cold does not cause a cold. Infections prevail in winter months because they are spread when more people stay indoors for longer periods of time and are in closer contact with eachother.
Myth #3-Hugging and kissing are great ways to spread cold and flu germs.
Truth: Cold and flu viruses like to enter the body through the nose or eyes so a hugh or a peck on the cheek isn't likely to be dangerous. Don't be afraid to give your sick child plenty of affection!
Many parents recognize our location as safe and clean for children. We work hard to ensure each and every visit lives up to your expectations. Daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation helps keep our environment clean and the germs away. My favorite thing to hear kids and parents say is "It smells like a swimming pool in here!" I always respond "Thats because its clean!!!!"
Here's where you can help. We ask that you do not come to class if your child is coughing, or has had a fever within the last 24 hours. Our generous make up policy allows you to attend a makeup class by simply calling us prior to the absence.