As summer draws to a close, the back-to-school season is upon us once again. It's a time filled with excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with some health concerns that should not be overlooked. As students and teachers alike prepare to return to the classroom, George’s Pharmacy and Medical Equipment knows that it's essential to prioritize health and well-being. In this blog, we'll discuss three crucial elements to consider for a successful and healthy start to the new school year: handwashing, cold/flu season prevention, and the importance of vaccines.

The Power of Handwashing

Handwashing is a simple yet powerful practice that can protect students and educators from various illnesses. The importance of hand hygiene has become even more evident in recent times, with the ongoing emphasis on preventing the spread of contagious diseases. Encourage everyone to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This ritual should be practiced before eating, after using the restroom, and after touching shared surfaces or objects.

Teaching proper handwashing techniques to younger students can be beneficial in establishing good hygiene habits early on. Make it a fun activity by incorporating songs or rhymes while they wash their hands. Additionally, placing hand sanitizer stations strategically throughout the school can be an added layer of protection.

It may seem like common knowledge, but many kids and adults are actually not washing their hands properly. Here's a detailed guide on how to effectively wash your hands:

  • Wet your hands: Start by wetting your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), and apply soap.
  • Lather the soap: Rub your hands together with the soap to create a good lather. Ensure that you cover all surfaces of your hands, including the backs, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  • Scrub for at least 20 seconds: This is a crucial step. Singing the "Happy Birthday" song twice (or any other song that lasts around 20 seconds) can be a fun way to ensure you scrub for the recommended duration.
  • Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your hands well under clean, running water to remove all soap and lather.
  • Dry your hands: Use a clean towel or air dryer to dry your hands thoroughly. If possible, use a paper towel to turn off the faucet to avoid recontamination.
  • Hand sanitizer as an alternative: If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Apply the sanitizer to all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Navigating Cold and Flu Season

As the school year progresses, the cold and flu season inevitably makes its appearance. To minimize the risk of illness spreading among your school community, it's crucial to take preventive measures. Encourage everyone to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or their elbow when sneezing or coughing. Proper disposal of used tissues and frequent handwashing following such events can reduce the transmission of germs.

Furthermore, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment is essential. In addition to proper handwashing, the CDC also recommends some other preventive measures for the back-to-school season:

  • Stay home when sick: If students or teachers are feeling unwell, they should stay home until they are symptom-free to prevent the spreading of illnesses to others.
  • Practice respiratory etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, desks, and electronic devices.
  • Get vaccinated: Encourage all eligible individuals to get vaccinated against preventable diseases, such as influenza and COVID-19, to protect themselves and others.

The Significance of Vaccines

Vaccines have been a critical tool in controlling and preventing infectious diseases throughout history. Before heading back to school, it's essential for both students and teachers to ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also contributes to the overall health of the school community.

Many schools and educational institutions collaborate with healthcare providers to offer vaccination clinics. These clinics may provide vaccines against illnesses such as influenza, tetanus, pertussis, and more. For individuals who are 18 and above, George’s Pharmacy and Medical Equipment offers easy and convenient appointments to get vaccinated. This can be a proactive step towards safeguarding your health and the well-being of others around you.

At George’s Pharmacy and Medical Equipment, we are committed to keeping parents, kids and educators healthy this school year! As always, the back-to-school season should be approached with a focus on health and safety. Practicing good handwashing habits, taking preventive measures during cold and flu season, and staying up-to-date with vaccinations are essential elements to ensure a successful and healthy start to the new academic year.  If you’re ready to book an appointment for a flu or other vaccine, reach out to a member of our team today!