Back-to-school sickness: A doctor mom’s best prevention tips

One mom (and doctor) shares smart ways to prevent back-to-school sickness this fall

askdrmom/TikTok

"Kids tend to get about three to five colds a year in those elementary years, as their immune system learns to recognize those viruses."

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With back-to-school season in full swing, most parents are thinking about outfits, shopping lists, and first-day logistics. But there’s another thing to consider: school-year sniffles. With the return to school, kids go back to being exposed to tons of illnesses, and cold and flu (and COVID) season is about to ramp back up in a big way. If you’re wondering how to protect your kids (and the rest of your family by extension), one mom, who is also a doctor, has tons of great tips in a now-viral TikTok.

Dr. Jessica Kiss, who posts to TikTok as @askdrmom, posted the video to share tips with parents about how to avoid back-to-school sickness, like colds, flu, and the new COVID variant that’s going around.

@askdrmom
Back to school means back to germs. Heres how to reduce risk. #backtoschool2024 #sickkids #covidflirt #covid19 #covid2024 #fall2024 #parentinghacks

♬ original sound – AskDrMom Dr Jessica Kiss

Why back-to-school sickness is so common

When kids head back to school, they’re suddenly surrounded by dozens of classmates, shared supplies, and busy classrooms. That means germs can spread fast. The most common culprits are cold and flu viruses, but strep throat, stomach bugs, and even pink eye also make the rounds this time of year. Doctors say this isn’t a sign your child has a “weak” immune system—it’s part of how kids build immunity. Still, simple routines at home, from handwashing to good sleep, go a long way in keeping kids healthy at school.

Quick tips to prevent back-to-school sickness

Dr. Kiss’s advice boils down to simple, consistent routines that families can practice at home to keep kids healthier once they head back to school:

Handwashing matters most. Practice at home, listen for water running, and use rewards or books like Sick Simonto make it stick.
Teach “vampire coughing.” Encourage kids to cough into their elbow instead of their hands—and to gently remind their friends to do the same.
Stay on top of checkups. Well-child visits and up-to-date vaccinations are key parts of cold and flu prevention.
Bathe more often. During the school week, frequent baths or showers can help rinse away classroom germs.
Accept some sickness. Kids may still get three to five colds a year, but that’s how their immune system learns and grows.