Aug 15, 2024 | Family Health

Essential Steps for a Healthy Start to School

Keep your kids healthy and happy this school year! Discover essential tips for boosting immunity, preventing illness, and ensuring a successful back-to-school season.

Back-to-school season is a whirlwind of excitement and preparation. As parents, you’re busy buying new clothes, school supplies, and packing lunches. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s crucial to prioritize your child’s health. A back-to-school checkup is an essential step in ensuring a healthy and successful school year.

At AFC Chattanooga, we understand the demands of busy families. That’s why we offer convenient walk-in appointments and extended hours, seven days a week. Our experienced medical team provides top-quality care for your child.

The Importance of a Pre-School Physical

A pre-school physical is more than just a routine check-up. It’s a comprehensive assessment of your child’s overall health and development. During this exam, your child’s healthcare provider will:

• Measure height, weight, and blood pressure
• Conduct vision and hearing screenings
• Assess growth and development milestones
• Review immunization records and administer any necessary vaccines
• Address any concerns or questions you may have

Early detection is key to preventing and managing childhood illnesses. By scheduling a back-to-school checkup, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your child’s well-being.

Common Vaccinations and Why They Matter

Vaccinations are one of the most effective tools in preventing the spread of contagious diseases. It’s crucial to ensure your child is up-to-date on their immunizations before heading back to school. Common vaccinations recommended for school-aged children include:

• DTaP: Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough)
• Polio: Protects against polio, a paralytic disease
• MMR: Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella
• Varicella: Protects against chickenpox
• HPV: Protects against human papillomavirus, which can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer

By getting your child vaccinated, you’re not only protecting them but also helping to create a healthier community. Vaccinations help prevent outbreaks of serious diseases and can save lives.

It’s understandable to have questions or concerns about vaccinations. Our healthcare providers are here to address your worries and provide accurate information. We believe in the importance of informed decision-making when it comes to your child’s health.

Identifying Potential Health Concerns

As children return to school, they’re exposed to a new wave of germs and potential health challenges. Common childhood illnesses that can disrupt the school year include:

• Common cold: Characterized by runny nose, cough, sore throat, and congestion.
• Flu: More severe than the common cold, with symptoms like fever, body aches, chills, and fatigue.
• Stomach bugs: Often causing diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
• Pink eye: An eye infection resulting in redness, itchiness, and discharge.

To help prevent the spread of illness, encourage your child to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

While many childhood illnesses can be managed at home, it’s essential to know when to seek medical attention. Visit our urgent care center if:

• Your child has a high fever that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication.
• Symptoms worsen or persist despite home treatment.
• Your child exhibits signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or sunken eyes.
• You have concerns about your child’s health.

A back-to-school checkup is an invaluable investment in your child’s health and well-being. By addressing potential health concerns and ensuring your child is up-to-date on vaccinations, you’re setting them up for a successful school year.

At AFC Chattanooga, we’re committed to providing accessible and comprehensive healthcare for your family. Our walk-in clinic and extended hours make it easy to fit a checkup into your busy schedule. Don’t wait – schedule your child’s back-to-school checkup today!