Limit your risk to cold, flu and infections during Back to School.

Children will be sharing more than just laughter and snacks with each other as they return to school. With cold and flu season around the corner, London Drugs is committed to helping parents and children learn simple precautions they can take to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.

Illnesses and infections such as a cold, the flu, pinkeye, and strep throat are common contagious conditions kids are likely to catch at school. Schools can provide an ideal breeding environment for viruses and bacteria and prevention is the key to help keep kids healthy.

Practicing the following ill-fighting habits will help to reduce the chances of getting sick:

• Frequent hand washing. Regular handwashing using soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds. If water and soap are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and ensure you rub your hands until the product is dry.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your sleeve. Dispose of the tissue right away and wash your hands afterwards using the tips above.
• Avoid rubbing your nose and eyes. Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth to keep germs from entering your body.
• Don’t share. Avoid sharing food, utensils, water bottles and other things that could pass bacteria and viruses.
• Taking a regular daily dose of vitamin C. Vitamin C intake can help decrease the duration and severity of a cold if you get one.
• Rest well. If your child is sick, keep them home from school and avoid contact with others.

Aside from a good rest, medications are also available to relieve symptoms associated with commonly seen illnesses. London Drugs pharmacists are available for in-store consultation to provide with customers the most up-to-date treatments and care.