5 Common Back-to-School Illnesses

Common back-to-school illnesses often make it feel like one step forward, one step back. Yay, the kids went back to school. Boo, but now they’re home sick — again! Here are some common illnesses you may encounter, as well as some tips to avoid getting sick in the first place (and what to do if you do). 

The common cold is common for a reason — it’s almost always going around and almost no one can avoid it forever. Marked by cough, congestion and a runny nose, the common cold is annoying though not particularly harmful (for most). Colds are typically caused by viruses so the best thing to do is to get lots of rest and let it run its course. 

Strep throat is another common illness, typically marked by a severe sore throat and high fever. The good news is that once it’s been diagnosed by a care provider and antibiotics are started, you’ll start feeling better within a day.  

The flu makes the rounds each fall and winter and can sideline you for several days. Marked by body aches, congestion and fevers, this one can leave its victims exhausted and overall crummy. Lots of rest and fluids are the prescription for health when recovering from the flu. 

Pink eye is a highly contagious eye infection that causes the white of the eye to look pink. This is typically accompanied by discharge in the eye and itchiness as well. Eye drops can be helpful if it’s a bacterial infection, but if it’s viral then it will take a few days to clear your system. 

And finally, COVID-19 is the newest addition to the common illnesses list. While the evolution of COVID-19 over the past few years means that it tends not to be as serious as it first was, it’s still not a pleasant experience. Its symptoms are a mash-up of the common cold and the flu and can vary from person to person. COVID-19 is diagnosed through a positive test, at which point you should stay home and rest until you have been fever-free for 24 hours. 

A few simple steps can mean the difference between sickness and health this fall.  

Make sure your family members prioritize proper handwashing. Wash hands before eating and touching your face, but also after being away from home all day, shaking hands with others or touching common surfaces like doors, handles and windows. 

If you or your kids end up getting sick, stay home. Wait to return to school or work until you aren’t contagious anymore. The CDC offers guidelines for most illnesses and your medical practitioner can offer you guidance as well. If you are sneezing or coughing, do so into your arm to stop the spread of germs. If you cough into your hands or blow your nose, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. 

We hope you and your family stay healthy this fall and avoid these common illnesses!