The back-to-school season is full of excitement, new routines, and fresh learning opportunities. But along with sharpened pencils and packed lunches, this time of year can also bring an unwelcome guest list: illnesses and injuries. With children spending more time in close quarters, sharing supplies, and engaging in active play, germs and accidents can spread quickly. In this blog, we’ll explore common back-to-school conditions, how to prevent them, and when it might be necessary to seek professional medical care.
For same-day pediatric urgent care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our team provides a wide range of back-to-school conditions, including school and sports physicals. Walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
Common Back-To-School Illnesses & Injuries
Below are some common back-to-school illnesses and injuries you should know. These basic principles of a healthy lifestyle will save you money and prevent injury.
- Backpain Injuries: Overloaded backpacks can cause muscle strain, back pain, and poor posture. A backpack should weigh no more than 10–15% of a child’s body weight.
- Colds and Flu: These viral infections spread easily in crowded classrooms. Symptoms include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and fever.
- Conjunctivitis: This is a contagious infection causing red, irritated eyes. It can spread by direct contact and bacterial cases require medical treatment.
- Lice: Tiny parasites that live on the scalp and spread through head-to-head contact or shared hats and brushes.
- Playground injuries: Falls, sprains, and minor fractures can occur during recess or sports activities.
- Strep Throat: A bacterial infection causing severe sore throat, fever, and swollen glands. Requires antibiotics to prevent complications.
- Stomach Flu: Gastroenteritis can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Often spreads through contaminated food or surfaces.
Avoiding Back-To-School Injuries
1. Choose the right backpack with padded straps, and encourage your child to wear both straps to distribute weight evenly.
2. Teach proper handwashing before meals and after using the restroom.
3. Encourage healthy habits like balanced meals, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity to boost immunity.
4. Promote safe play by reminding children about playground rules and the importance of looking out for others.
5. Disinfect high-touch items like water bottles, lunch boxes, and electronics regularly.
Get Back-To-School Health Services at AFC Urgent Care Clark
AFC Urgent Care Clark is open after the bell rings. We can provide quick answers and treatment without a long wait, whether it’s a sudden fever on a school morning, a suspicious rash after gym class, or a twisted ankle from playground tag. Visiting early means your child spends less time sidelined by sickness or injury, and more time raising their hand in class instead of at home on the couch. Our experienced team of healthcare providers can provide the best treatment and recommendations for care—every day of the week! We accept most major health insurances and offer cost-effective care for self-paying patients. For more information about the services we provide, please call us directly at (732) 301-5114.
