"During the colder months, a lot of people are inside, so you see a lot of kids in school," said Dr. Gino Urbano, a Pediatric Resident at Valley Children's Hospital. "One kid gets sick, then the whole class gets sick or they have a sibling get sick. They take it home, and then everyone in the family gets sick. It's very easy to spread when everyone is inside at the same time."
The CDC says flu activity across the country is going up. The agency estimates there have been over 4 million cases with over 1,900 people dying from the virus, including three children.
Doctors expect it to be even busier after the holidays.
"We're prepared to handle that influx if ever it does happen," said Dr. Urbano.
Dr. Urban stresses now is the time to be proactive in our health, especially for our young ones.
"For infants under eight months, in particular, the RSV vaccine," said Dr. Ubrano. "It's really important that they get it."
The flu isn't the only illness that doctors are watching for. Doctors are closely monitoring cases of the cold, norovirus, and hand, foot, and mouth disease.
"If you see some small lesions on their feet, their hands and on their mouth, or their backside, those are things to watch out for," said Dr. Urbano.
On top of washing our hands, Urbano says wearing a mask is another way to help protect our loved ones from getting sick. Healthy eating habits can also help boost the immune system. So can a good night's rest.
"We want to target eight to nine hours of sleep for our kiddos," said Dr. Urbano. "Ensuring that they get it protects them from the viruses that are going around this time of year."
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