How Do Children Catch Viruses: Preventing Cold and Flu

Sneezing, coughing, and sometimes even fever – a cold or flu isn’t pleasant for anyone and even more so if the one getting them is your child. We often think that we can only get these viral infections from cold weather or by being in the rain. This means that you can get these viral infections throughout the year and not only during rainy seasons. But how does this work? When it is colder or raining outside, we spend more time indoors, so we are closer with people more often.  A virus can spread between people who are in close contact with one another, mainly by droplets made when people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into lungs. A person can also get infected by physical human contact (e.g. shaking hands) or by touching a surface or object that has virus on it and then touching his or her own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes. Therefore, it is easier for a virus to spread in an outdoor environment. That is also the reason that your child has a higher chance to catch a cold or an infection at daycare.

Preventing A Cold Or Flu 

Viruses are always around us. When someone’s immune system is lower than normal, they fall sick. It is likely that this person will spread the virus to others. They will be infected when the virus enters their body through the nose, eyes or mouth. Children fall sick more often than the adults, which is normal as their immune system is still developing. Every time you touch your nose or clean your child’s face after a messy dinner with a possibly infected hand, you can infect yourself or your child with the virus. Hands are often the pathways of germ transmission. 

That is why it is so important to frequently wash your hand and your child’s hands. Good hygiene is essential in protecting yourself and your child from catching a virus. For anyone that’s about to handle their toddlers, they should make sure they’ve thoroughly washed their hands. 

Tip: to prevent flu and/or cold symptoms, make sure you practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap or use a hand sanitizer.