Note: This article is sponsored by Children’s Mercy. All views expressed are my own.
Everyone has their preferred and least preferred times of the year. My favorite is undoubtedly Fall. I relish the dropping temperatures after a sweltering summer and enjoy the coziness of wearing jeans and sweatshirts. Fall is my season. And let’s not forget the stunning autumn leaves that rapidly transform in color, eventually falling to the ground so my children can jump into them and create heaps!
On the other hand, my least favorite time? The Flu Season. That’s right—Flu Season. In Missouri, we’ve already seen its onset, with cases rapidly increasing. At Children’s Mercy, reported cases nearly doubled each week in September. As a result, health experts are advising that everyone over the age of six months should receive a flu vaccine this year. The flu poses significant risks for children aged five and under, especially those younger than two years. It’s important for anyone in a household with young children to get vaccinated as well.
Proactive measures against the flu are crucial. To assist in avoiding infection, the Centers for Disease Control suggest opting for the flu shot over the nasal vaccine this season. Additionally, consider these tips to strengthen your defenses:
- Wash hands often.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues.
- Prioritize adequate sleep.
- Incorporate probiotics and fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Avoid nail-biting.
- Regularly disinfect shared objects.
Need clarification on how the flu operates? Check out these flu myth busters! For more valuable information, visit childrensmercy.org, and don’t forget to follow Children’s Mercy on Facebook and Twitter for ongoing parenting advice.
What measures do you take to keep your family safe from the flu?
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says
I really need to get on the ball and get my shot! As a diabetic, if I catch the flu, it takes me a lot longer to recover.
says
I’m very diligent about hand-washing, but I absolutely dislike getting the flu.
says
I haven’t had the flu in years! I’m so relieved that I got my flu shot and I wash my hands frequently!
says
We avoided the flu, but we did experience a prolonged virus, and my husband ended up with pneumonia as a complication. It was really exhausting, and I can’t imagine also having to deal with the flu this year.
says
Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping your immune system strong!