LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The first day of school is right around the corner for thousands of kids across Kentuckiana. But in addition to new backpacks, school supplies and books, the return to class also increases the risk of bacteria being spread.
Local doctors are preparing for an uptick in patients with a new school year about to start. Right now, measles has parents on alert after a case was confirmed last week in a Louisville boy who had traveled internationally to a country facing an outbreak.
"Measles is one of those things that, it's hard to overreact about because it's one of the most infectious diseases we know. For every person who gets measles, they can transmit it to about 18 other people who are not protected," Dr. Daniel Blatt, an infectious disease specialist at Norton Children's, said. "So if you are not protected from measles in that you haven't had previous infection or you haven't been vaccinated, then it is something to worry about. However, if you have been vaccinated like most kids have in our area, then they should be just fine."
Blatt said these are some of the most common illnesses doctors see as school starts: COVID, RSV, flu, the stomach bug and strep throat.
An uptick in patients with symptoms of these viruses are common as we move into the fall sick season.
Doctors encourage people to frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of germs. People who are sick with symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, body aches or difficulty breathing should stay home until they're symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication. People should also cover coughs and sneezes.
For guidance on preventing the spread of viruses or how to keep your family safe as kids go back to school, click here for guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC encourages families to teach their children healthy habits, such as washing their hands often and covering their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
The agency also stresses the importance of yearly check-ups and routine vaccinations, saying they keep children healthy and in school by reducing the spread of germs and making illnesses shorter and more mild.
Reasons to keep your child home sick from school include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and respiratory symptoms that are worsening or not improving. Experts encourage knowing when your child is well enough to go to school or should stay home based on their symptoms. For additional guidance on when and why your child should stay home from school, and when they can return, click here.
Common illnesses include COVID, RSV, influenza and norovirus
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