Staying Healthy While Looking After a Sick Child

How Parents Can Keep from Spreading Germs

In most cases, sharing is caring unless you're talking about germs and spreading illness around the family. Our team of experts at Antelope Valley Medical Center has a few tips for parents and caregivers on staying healthy while caring for a sick child.

1. Wash Your Hands

After the events of the last couple of years, we already know the importance of washing your hands regularly. Make sure you take extra time to keep up with this practice while your little one is ill. Of course, there's always liquid sanitizer if you can't stop by the sink as often enough.

2. Encourage Proper Sneezing and Coughing

Whether your child has a common cold or something more severe, it is important to teach them to cough or sneeze into their elbow versus out into the open room. This is a good practice in general, but it can also keep them from accidentally doing so directly on you. You can even make it fun for smaller kids by reminding them to pretend they're Dracula or the Sesame Street Count holding out a cape.

3. Minimize Hugging and Cuddling

We get it. When a toddler or a preschooler is sick, all they want is to snuggle with a parent they love and trust. And you might even be tempted to give in—after all, they're only little once. Unfortunately, this is a good way to transfer germs and get yourself sick. When possible, limit direct touching while your child still has a fever or shows symptoms. If you absolutely cannot avoid it, practice good hand washing and sanitizing techniques afterward.

4. Avoid Sharing Drink Cups, Utensils, and Food

Finally, keep from sharing any drink cups or utensils while they are ill. It might sound simple enough, but every parent understands what it is like to give your child a sip of your beverage or let them eat off your plate without thinking about it. While they are sick, try to avoid it.

5. Wash Bedding and Disinfect Surfaces

Another tip is to wash bedding, blankets, pillows, and any other soft surface once your child no longer shows symptoms. Also, use a disinfectant spray on high-touch areas, such as doorknobs, handles, faucets, etc. Doing this can help prevent reinfection and the spread of germs to other household members.

Lancaster, California Pediatric Care

Antelope Valley Medical Center is proud to be the only pediatric hospital in Antelope Valley, California. Our goal is to provide exceptional care to families in the local community and are here for you when you need us the most. Please give us a call at (661) 949-5000 or visit our dedicated services page for more information about the offerings at AVMC.