The start of a new school year brings new routines, activities, and plenty of time around other children. It can also mean more exposure to the germs that cause colds, flu, stomach illnesses, and other infections.
Most childhood illnesses can be managed at home with rest and fluids, but some symptoms may need a closer look. Knowing what to watch for can help parents decide when their child should stay home, when to contact their primary care provider, and when urgent care may be appropriate.
AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill provides care for common illnesses and minor injuries in children and adults, including on-site testing and X-rays. We're open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm for families who need care when their primary care provider isn't available.
Why Do Kids Get Sick After Going Back to School?
It's common for illnesses to spread more easily once children return to school. Students spend hours in close contact with one another and regularly share classrooms, desks, sports equipment, and other spaces.
Respiratory illnesses can spread through coughs and sneezes, while some stomach bugs can spread through contaminated hands and surfaces. Children may also be more likely to touch their faces or forget to wash their hands regularly.
Parents can't prevent every illness, but a few simple habits can help. Encourage your child to wash their hands before eating and after using the bathroom, cover coughs and sneezes, and avoid sharing drinks or utensils.
It's also important to keep children home when they're sick, both to give them time to recover and to reduce the chance of passing an illness to classmates.
What Are Common Back-to-School Illness Symptoms?
The first symptoms of an illness don't always make it obvious what's causing the problem. A cough, for example, could be related to a cold, another respiratory infection, or seasonal allergies.
Some common symptoms include:
- Cough and congestion
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Red or irritated eyes
If symptoms are getting worse or your child is struggling to eat, drink, breathe, or participate in normal activities, consider having them evaluated by a healthcare provider.
When Should I Take My Child to Urgent Care?
Urgent care can be a good option when your child needs to be evaluated for a non-emergency illness or injury and their regular doctor's office isn't available.
You may want to consider urgent care if:
- Your child's symptoms are getting worse instead of improving.
- They have significant throat, ear, or sinus pain.
- You're concerned about strep, flu, or another infection.
- Your child has a minor injury that needs to be evaluated.
- They need care outside of your primary care provider's normal hours.
If your child has severe trouble breathing, is difficult to wake, or is experiencing another potentially life-threatening emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical care instead.
Get Treatment for School Illnesses at AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill
When your child comes home from school with a sore throat, fever, cough, or stomach symptoms, it can be difficult to know whether they need rest at home or a medical evaluation. AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill is here when your family needs it.
Located on Boylston St in Chestnut Hill, MA, our clinic serves families in Brookline, Newton, Brighton, Needham, West Roxbury, and surrounding communities. We're open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and accept walk-in reservations. If your child needs to be seen today, call (617) 582-2200 or visit AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill for same-day care.
Save Your Spot