By AFC Urgent Care Coppell
As kids head back to school in Coppell, Lewisville, and surrounding communities like Irving, Valley Ranch, Flower Mound Las Colinas, Carrollton, and Grapevine, parents have a lot on their plates — new teachers, school supplies, after-school activities, and the occasional homework battle. But there’s one more essential thing to add to your list: flu prevention.
School is one of the most common places kids catch and spread viruses. The close contact, shared surfaces, and group activities make schools the perfect breeding ground for illnesses like influenza. But with the right strategies, you can help keep your child flu-free this school year — and protect your household in the process.
At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, we treat flu cases every day during peak season — and we’ve gathered our top tips to help parents stay ahead of the virus. Whether you’re parenting a preschooler or a high schooler, this guide will help you minimize flu risks and keep your kids healthy all season long.
Why Flu Season Hits Schools So Hard
Influenza spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Kids can pass the flu virus:
- Before they show symptoms
- After touching shared surfaces like desks, doorknobs, and lunch trays
- Through direct contact like hugs or handshakes
In busy schools across Coppell ISD, Lewisville ISD, and private campuses in Las Colinas and Valley Ranch, this means one sick child can quickly infect an entire classroom.
The good news? Flu is preventable.
Top Flu Prevention Tips for Parents
Let’s break down the most effective ways to protect your kids from the flu this school year:
✅ 1. Get Your Child a Flu Shot — Early
The #1 way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated before the virus starts spreading.
- The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year.
- It takes two weeks for full immunity to develop.
- For children under 9 getting their first flu shot, two doses may be needed, spaced 4 weeks apart.
At AFC Urgent Care Coppell, we offer walk-in flu shots for kids of all ages — no appointment needed. We also serve families from Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, and Grapevine, making it easy to protect your child before flu season peaks.
✅ 2. Teach Proper Handwashing Techniques
Handwashing is one of the most effective defenses against germs.
Teach your child to:
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds
- Use soap and warm water
- Wash before eating, after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, and after recess or PE
Pack travel-size hand sanitizer in their backpack for times when soap and water aren’t available.
✅ 3. Practice Respiratory Etiquette at Home
Teach your child to:
- Cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow
- Dispose of tissues immediately
- Wash hands afterward
Kids in Irving, Las Colinas, and other crowded school districts who use good hygiene habits help prevent classwide outbreaks.
✅ 4. Avoid Sharing Food, Drinks, and Personal Items
Kids are naturally social — but it’s important they learn to keep personal items to themselves during flu season.
Teach them not to share:
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Chapstick
- Utensils
- Hats or face masks
Even casual sharing can spread flu germs between classmates.
✅ 5. Boost Your Child’s Immune System with Healthy Habits
A strong immune system helps your child fight off illness faster — or avoid getting sick altogether.
Focus on:
- A balanced diet: fruits, veggies, lean protein, and whole grains
- Plenty of sleep: 9–11 hours for school-aged kids
- Daily hydration
- Physical activity: movement helps regulate the immune system
Limit excessive sugar, processed foods, and late-night screen time, which can weaken immunity.
✅ 6. Keep Your Child Home When They're Sick
If your child has flu symptoms — even mild ones — it’s best to keep them home from school or daycare.
Common flu symptoms in children:
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Body aches
- Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea
Let them stay home until they are fever-free for 24 hours without medication and symptoms are improving.
This helps prevent spread to classmates and allows your child to fully recover.
✅ 7. Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Items at Home
Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Make it a habit to clean:
- Backpacks and lunchboxes
- Cell phones and tablets
- Doorknobs and light switches
- Remote controls and shared toys
- Kitchen counters and bathroom sinks
Use EPA-approved disinfectants and clean frequently, especially during flu season.
✅ 8. Talk to Your School About Their Flu Policies
Stay informed about your child’s school flu prevention policies.
Ask:
- Does the school offer on-site flu vaccinations?
- How do they handle sick students or outbreaks?
- Are classrooms and buses cleaned daily?
- Is there a handwashing or sanitizer policy?
Schools in Coppell, Lewisville, and Irving are often proactive, but your involvement helps ensure policies are followed.
✅ 9. Teach Kids to Speak Up When They Don’t Feel Well
Kids sometimes try to push through symptoms because they don’t want to miss school or disappoint teachers.
Encourage your child to:
- Tell a teacher or nurse if they feel sick
- Be honest about how they’re feeling
- Rest when needed
It’s better to catch symptoms early and seek care at AFC Urgent Care Coppell before they worsen or spread.
✅ 10. Schedule a Checkup if Your Child Hasn’t Seen a Doctor Recently
If your child hasn’t had a well visit in the past year, it’s a good idea to schedule one — especially before peak flu season.
A checkup gives your provider a chance to:
- Review vaccine history
- Screen for any underlying health concerns
- Offer additional preventive care advice
At AFC Coppell, we provide pediatric urgent care services that fit your family’s schedule — with evening and weekend hours and no appointments needed.
Why AFC Urgent Care Coppell Is the Best Option for Flu Protection
We make it easy for families in Coppell, Lewisville, Las Colinas, Flower Mound, Carrollton, and Valley Ranch to stay ahead of flu season with:
- Walk-in flu shots for all ages
- No appointments required
- COVID-19 and RSV testing on-site
- Rapid flu testing and antiviral treatment
- Pediatric-friendly providers
- Open 7 days a week
Our caring, experienced team understands that busy parents need flexible care — and that sick kids need to feel safe, seen, and supported.
FAQs: Parents’ Top Flu Questions
Can my child get the flu from the flu shot?
No. The flu vaccine contains inactivated virus and cannot cause infection. Mild symptoms like low fever or tiredness are signs the body is building protection.
What if my child is scared of shots?
We specialize in pediatric care and use a gentle, reassuring approach. You can bring a favorite toy or treat to help them feel more comfortable.
Should my child get a COVID-19 vaccine too?
Yes. Kids over 6 months can receive COVID-19 vaccines, and it’s safe to receive both flu and COVID shots at the same time.
Final Thoughts: A Healthy School Year Starts with Flu Prevention
Flu season doesn’t have to mean sick days and missed school. With the right preparation, flu education, and medical support, you can help your child stay healthy, stay in class, and stay active all year long.
By combining vaccination, hygiene habits, and healthy routines, you can protect your child — and everyone around them — from serious illness.
