HEALTH Fighting back-to-school bugs and germs

Encouraging kids to use tissues and bin them afterwards will help stop germs from spreading.

Back to school in good health


Ask the pharmacist
James Geraghty

The classroom is a breeding ground for an untold number of bugs and germs and sometimes it can feel as though you’re fighting an uphill battle; no sooner have you nursed your child through one illness than another comes along! Happily a few simple steps can help to keep those bugs at bay.
Encourage your child to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly especially after every visit to the toilet and prior to eating or preparing food. Experts recommend spending at least 15 seconds – about the time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday to You’ twice through – to wash hands properly.
Teaching kids to cough and sneeze hygienically and to bin their tissues after use, can also help to curb the spread of germs.
Help to strengthen their immune systems by feeding them a diet rich in fresh, seasonal fruits and where possible opt for organic food over non-organic. Research shows that it is more nutritious with higher levels of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, and fewer potential toxins like synthetic pesticides and antibiotics.
A good synbiotic formula – a nutritional supplement that combines probiotics (good gut bacteria) and prebiotics (food for good bacteria) – can also help to strengthen your child’s immune system. This is especially worth bearing in mind if your child has recently finished a course of antibiotics, which destroy good bacteria in the gut along with the bad.Opt for a sugar-free synbiotic formula designed especially for children. Viridian Nutrition’s Children’s Synbiotic Powder for example has proven really popular, not just against colds and flu, but tummy upsets too. Simply sprinkle over food or add to yoghurt.
Boost their EFAs! Essential fatty acids are required for the normal functioning of white blood cells and research shows that children with a history of recurrent respiratory infections fare better when taking supplements of EFAs.
Finally, even the most varied, fresh food diet may lack certain vitamins and minerals. A good multi-vit designed especially for children should ensure they get the essential nutrients needed to mount an effective immune response. Look out for vitamin A, beta carotene, the B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper and iron and always opt for a multi-vit that’s free from sugars, sweeteners, additives, fillers and binders.

James Geraghty is the managing director of the Molloy’s Lifestyle Pharmacy Group. He has a degree in biochemistry and pharmacy, as well as 15 years’ experience of the health industry. A huge believer in the importance of exercise and wellbeing, he regularly lectures to active retirement and special interest groups around the county.