Back To School Wellness

Kids are going back to school this week, and that means the germs will be spreading. You don’t have to spend the first few weeks nursing summer colds, however. Prevention is the key!

• Wash your hands. You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again. The single most effective way to prevent the spread of germs is to wash your hands. Antibacterial soap isn’t necessary; it’s the mechanical action of the scrubbing along with the surfactants in soap that rinse the germs down the drain.

• Sanitize. Most back to school supply lists now require hand sanitizer for classroom use. Small bottles on key chains or clips are a great idea for attaching to backpacks and lunchboxes, as well. Get everyone in the habit of rubbing some on before they eat, and when they get on and off the school bus.

• Cover Your Mouth. Coughing and sneezing spray millions of viruses and bacteria into the air, and anyone nearby will be inhaling germ soup. Love thy neighbor, and keep the snot to yourself.

• But Not With Your Hands. Teach your children not to cough on their hands, and you will drastically minimize the germ spreading in your home. They can cough into their elbows or inner arms, in order to cover their mouths.

• Go herbal. There is evidence that herbs such as Echinacea can enhance immune system response, if taken for short periods. Garlic is also reported to prevent illness, and Vitamin C and zinc are well known helps for shortening sickness.

• Get to the pharmacy. Nowadays, there are many over the counter preventatives and cures. Airborne isn’t just for plane trips and can keep you well when everyone else is sick; you might check out the stock of cough drops while you’re at it!