Autumn is well and truly underway and with it, colds and viruses may start to spread more easily. We had a great uptake of flu vaccinations this year and we were pleased to get the vaccine so early; hopefully this will help to keep some of those flu bugs at bay!

The government website has some handy tips for how to keep kids healthy during the colder months, which we’ve shared below.

1. Make sure your child is up to date with their vaccinations

Childhood infections like measles and whooping cough are on the rise. These infections can have a serious impact on your child’s life and can lead to absence, hospitalisation and even more serious complications. The best protection is to get your child vaccinated through the NHS’ free childhood immunisation programme scheme. If you miss a vaccine, you may be able to catch up. Contact your GP if you’re unsure.

2. Remind your child to follow basic hygiene standards

Good hygiene can help to reduce the spreading of infections. Washing hands for 20 seconds with soap and water, catching sneezes and coughs in tissues, and avoiding touching the face, particularly eyes, nose and mouth, are all good practice.

3. Know when your child is too ill for school

While it’s often safe for your child to come to school with a mild illness such a runny nose, minor cough or sore throat, children should stay at home if they have a high temperature of 38°C or above.  Check out our Andoversford Primary School - Absence & Illness page for detailed information on when to keep children at home.

For more information on how to keep children healthy, see the government website: Top tips on how to keep your child healthy at school – The Education Hub (blog.gov.uk)