A Pediatrician’s Advice On Fight Fall Viruses

Dear Reader,

November is such a great time of year for kids and parents alike.  Halloween and October Festivals are fresh on your mind.  You can almost smell the roasted turkey and pumpkin pie of Thanksgiving. Kids are dreaming of Christmas lists, and parents are planning on presents to buy.  This should be a joyous time to connect with family and loved ones…unfortunately, some of us won’t be enjoying magic moments over the next few months.

It’s sad but true that this season of family, festivities, and fun will be accompanied by an uptick in seriously ill children and adults frequenting urgent care clinics and emergency rooms.

Recently, Pediatrician Dr. Krupa Playforth was interviewed on 4 Washington.  Click here for the full article: 4 Washington-Pediatrician Advice For Fighting Fall Viruses.

Dr. Playforth says she’s seen an increase in COVID, Strep Throat, dangerous respiratory viruses, and Influenza.  These illnesses can derail your plans and upset your life under the best of circumstances and will end the lives of children, parents, and grandparents across our country in the coming months.

So far this year, the CDC has reported 180,295 deaths involving Pneumonia, Influenza, or COVID-19.  Further reports from the CDC indicate that only 70% of the US population, young and old, are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and an average of only 50% of Americans get a flu vaccine each year.

A recent report by the Washington State Department of Health revealed that unvaccinated individuals are between 2.4 and 11.9 times more likely to die from COVID-19 compared to those who received at least one booster dose.

What do all these numbers mean for you and your family?  It’s simple.  Get vaccinated if you want to increase your odds of making it through the season. Get your children vaccinated. Encourage anyone you care about to get vaccinated as well.   You can’t keep your children safe from every danger that lurks in the dark. But you can dramatically stack the odds in their favor of enjoying the holidays far away from hospitals and emergency rooms.

Getting vaccinated is at the top of almost every pediatrician’s list of how to stay safe from illness and disease this season. Add the following top tips from pediatricians, and you will significantly increase your odds of a healthy, fun holiday with your family and loved ones.

1. Stress the importance of washing hands. Germs are everywhere and easily spread.   Teach your little ones to scrub their hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after sneezing or coughing, and lead by example.
2. Boost Immunity with Nutrition. A balanced diet rich in veggies, high-quality protein, fruits, and whole grains can keep you and the kiddos running strong. Be sure to add foods high in Vitamin C and Zinc for an extra immune system boost.
3. Get enough sleep. Most of us are sleep-deprived.  Doctors recommend we get 7-9 hours of sleep a night as adults and children need more, somewhere between 9-12 hours a night.   With jobs, family obligations, and a list of chores, most of us are lucky to clear six hours a night, and statistics show our kids fall short as well. Make a point to aim for bedtime at least 30 minutes earlier than normal.  The kids might grumble, but the added sleep will do wonders for their health and their immunity.   While you’re at it, do the same for yourself.  Your body will thank you.
4. Stay Active. Physical activity helps keep the immune system strong, fight off infection, and reduce the risk of illness.  So, keep your family moving.
5. Drink plenty of fluids. You’ve probably heard this advice from your pediatrician when recovering from a cold.  It’s good advice. Advice you should follow whether you’re currently ill or trying to stay healthy through the season.  Staying well hydrated helps your body fight off infection by flushing out toxins and transporting vital nutrients throughout your system.
6. Clean and disinfect. Make wiping down doorknobs, light switches, toys, and common areas part of your daily routine and reduce the risk of spreading dangerous germs.
7. Isolate when ill. If you or your little one is sick, stay home. Don’t go to work and keep the kids home from school.  Please do your part to keep our community safe by stopping the spread.
8. See your doctor if you or your child develops a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. The faster you begin treatment, the better your outcome is likely to be.

While these tips can go a long way in protecting your child from fall viruses, it’s important to recognize that unforeseen circumstances can disrupt even the best-laid plans. In a world where we strive to protect our children from every possible danger, one important element is to have a comprehensive child protection plan.

I’m pleased to announce the Child Protection Plan now offered at my law firm.  This plan, like a vaccine or immunization, is a way to protect your child from potential peril.   Just like most of us are not planning to fall ill this season, none of us plan to be killed on the road home—yet we all know that people die in accidents across our nations every day.  

Your Child Protection Plan helps ensure your child’s well-being is properly cared for in the unfortunate event of your death. With this plan, you can make legally sound arrangements for guardianship and financial security, granting your children the protection and care they deserve.

By safeguarding your child’s health and future, you’re showing your unwavering commitment to their well-being. Fall viruses may come and go, but the enduring security of your child is a responsibility that every parent should prioritize.

For more information on the Child Protection Plan and how it can secure your child’s future, email me at paul@samakowlaw.com or text or call 703-472-7688 to arrange for a discreet and confidential conversation about your Children’s Protection Plan.

Until next time, please be safe, and NEVER text while driving!

Paul Samakow

Attorney Paul Samakow