Prepare for a safe, healthy school year

It’s still early July and mid-summer but school will be starting back up soon. To have a healthy and safe school year, start preparing now. These tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can help:

1. Wash hands frequently. Germs are everywhere especially in schools with numerous students and teachers. To avoid passing germs and getting sick, it is important to practice proper hand washing before eating, after using the bathroom, and after blowing their nose, coughing or sneezing. Proper hand washing can also help keep teachers and parents healthy and avoid missing work.

2. Eat well. Studies show that nearly one in five children are obese which puts them at a greater risk for health conditions such as asthma, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. It is important for children to eat a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and lean meats. Oils, saturated fats, sugars and sodium should be limited.

3. Limit sugary drinks. Many sports drinks, sodas and other flavored beverages have added sugar and are high in calories. Many people are unaware just how many calories are in what they drink. Be sure to check all nutrition labels. Water is a great, no-calorie, low-cost beverage which can also keep you hydrated and healthy.

4. Stay active. Being physically active not only helps a child stay healthy but can also reduce anxiety and help stay focused at school. Experts recommend children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each. Any type of activity, including running, walking and play sports count. Limiting time watching television, playing video games and surfing the web can also help.

5. Stay cool. Even though school will be starting soon, it is still summer and temperatures are high. Make sure to plan outdoor activities when it is cooler, pace activity, apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water. This will help prevent heat-related illnesses.

6. Don’t smoke, vape or use tobacco. It is important for parents and teachers to educate youth on the harmful effects of smoking, vaping and using tobacco. Studies show that in 2018 more than 3.6 million young people used e-cigarettes. The nicotine can harm youth’s brain specifically the areas responsible for learning, memory and attention. The CDC and local tobacco coalitions offer free education resources.

7. Stay safe. Accidents can happen at any time at school whether on the playground, in the cafeteria or hallway, or playing a sport activity. It is important to be able to identify and respond to injuries and concussions right away. See a healthcare provider in the case of a concussion or injury.

8. Plan for emergencies. Make sure your child’s school and teacher is aware of each child’s health conditions, medications, allergies, contact information, etc.

9. Get vaccinated. It is important for children from newborn to college age students to get vaccinated. Vaccines can help protect your child’s health in addition to classmates, friends, relatives and others in the community.

Check with your healthcare provider or local health department for vaccination recommendations.

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Joseph Vormohr is an internal medicine and pediatric physician at IU Health Jay Family Medicine in Portland.