Back to School: Building your child's immunity ahead of new school year

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Kids in Central California are soaking up every last bit of the summer sun.

Students in the Fresno Unified School District head back to the classroom on August 18.

For mom Courtney Lucio, she's taking steps to protect her kids' health.

"I make sure they stay hydrated, they take their multi-vitamins, they're up to date with their vaccines," she said. "I make sure they stay sanitary with their hands because we do come to playground a lot."

Health experts say it's common for kids to get sick within the first few weeks of school, especially for students in the younger grades.

It's a trend that Fresno Unified School District has also noted.

"It's because they are exposed to germs haven't been exposed to before," says Michelle Parker, Interim Executive Director of Health Services at Fresno Unified.

Parker says they see cases of the cold in the first few weeks, as well as COVID-19.

But those aren't the only illnesses that seem to pop up.

"We are entering into flu season, so we start seeing that, as well as RSV," she said.

Parker says teachers encourage good hand hygiene in the classroom.

She adds that school nurses are also a big help in keeping kids healthy.

"They also provide education to our students on how to be healthy and provide resources to our students and families," she said.

But it's important for parents to build immunity for their kids.

Anne VanGarsse is the Pediatrics Medical Director at Valley Children's Hospital.

"Especially in the era of the measles, we're also seeing pertussis outbreaks, which is whooping cough," she said. "Making sure your kid is up to date on those vaccines is first and foremost the most important thing."

Dr. Mitu Patel with Kaiser Permanente in Fresno also shares these tips to keeping your kids healthy.

"We need to get kids back to a normal sleep schedule," Dr. Patel said. "Nutrition is another one, so it's time to get back to healthy eating, proper balanced meals.

Doctors also say you should check your child's vaccines records and talk to their physician about any required immunizations.

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