Avoiding the enterovirus virus

Kids are back in school and so are the “bugs” that can cause colds and other illnesses.

With reports of a rare respiratory virus suspected in nearby states, it’s a good idea to remind your children about some important steps they can take to stay healthy.

Doctors say hand washing is one of the best ways to fight the spread of viruses, including the one that has left hundreds of children hospitalized in 10 states recently. A rare form of enterovirus has been confirmed in some of the cases in Missouri, and suspected in others, including some cases in Ohio.

The virus has no vaccine and it can cause serious illness in children with asthma or weakened immune systems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urge parents to start good habits now to avoid colds and flu later on.

Practice these steps to protect yourself and your children:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers
• Avoid close contact, such as touching and shaking hands, with people who are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, including toys, backpacks and lunchboxes
• Avoid sharing food, cups or utensils
• Keep your children at home when they are sick if possible

Five common ways germs are spread:

It's back to school time and we all know what that means. Shopping, getting back into a night time routines and runny noses.

One of the most common ways children get colds is by rubbing their nose or eyes after cold virus germs have gotten on their hands.

Here are five common ways germs are spread between people.

Does your child suffer from sinusitis?

One of the most important — and sometimes confusing — roles of a parent is the “early diagnosis” of your child’s illness. Is it a sprain, or something more serious? Should we head to the emergency department or can it wait for our doctor’s appointment? Parents frequently face these questions and search for answers, as they focus on keeping their children healthy.

Sports physicals are just the first step

Each year, parents of student athletes schedule the required sports physicals in time for their student to get in the game. But what if follow-up is needed? What if there’s a sports-related injury?

At McLaren Macomb’s Athletic Medicine Institute, our team is prepared to provide sports physicals as well as ongoing physician care to help ensure your student athlete stays healthy and active. McLaren Macomb’s Athletic Medicine Institute includes orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, cardiologists, rehabilitation physicians and primary care doctors. And as Macomb County’s first verified trauma center, we also offer expert trauma and emergency care for any sports-related injury or condition.

Childhood injury prevention

 Quick Tips

According to statistics, more than 4.5 million children are injured at home each year. Here are some common sense safety tips to help keep your child safe.