Fraser Health's Guide to Protect your children from respiratory illnesses this winter
Respiratory season and fall immunizations guide brought to you by Fraser Health.
Protect your children from respiratory illnesses this winter
Respiratory illnesses tend to increase as we spend more time indoors. Common colds, the flu and COVID-19 spread through tiny droplets as people who are sick breathe, talk, cough or sneeze. When other people touch these droplets and then their eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands they may become sick.
There are a handful of steps both children and adults can take to protect themselves and limit the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, mouth and nose.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow.
- If you have symptoms, stay home and stay away from people at higher risk of serious illness.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
The best way to protect others and reduce the risk of getting sick with the flu and COVID-19 is to get immunized. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and available for free to anyone aged six months and older.
It is much safer to get the vaccines than to get the illnesses. Register your children with the Get Vaccinated system so that you can be invited to book their vaccinations when they are due.