Staying One Step Ahead of the Flu #CMHMoms

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Children’s Mercy. All opinions are my own.

Everyone has a season they cherish and one they dread. My favorite is definitely Fall. As the scorching summer heat subsides, there’s something truly delightful about slipping into jeans and cozy sweatshirts. I absolutely adore Fall! Not to mention the stunning transformation of leaves into various shades before they gracefully fall to the ground, allowing my kids to jump into leaf piles!

However, my least favorite season is undoubtedly Flu Season. Flu season has begun here in Missouri, and it is spreading quickly. Reports at Children’s Mercy indicated that the number of cases nearly doubled each week in September. Consequently, doctors are urging everyone over six months old to get vaccinated against the flu this year. For kids aged five and under, especially those under two, the flu can be quite severe, so if you have young children in your family, it’s essential they get vaccinated too.

Staying ahead of the flu is crucial. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend opting for the flu shot over the nasal spray vaccine this year. In addition to getting vaccinated, here are some practical tips to help prevent the flu:

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Cover your mouth and nose with tissues when you cough or sneeze.
• Ensure you get adequate sleep.
• Incorporate live probiotics into your diet (e.g., yogurt, fresh fruits, and vegetables).
• Consider taking a probiotic supplement.
• Avoid biting your nails.
• Sanitize shared surfaces and items regularly.

If you need help grasping how the flu functions, check out these flu myth busters. You can also visit childrensmercy.org for additional resources. Don’t forget to follow Children’s Mercy on Facebook and Twitter for regular parenting advice.

What special measures do you take to keep your family safe from the flu?