Welcome Back to School, Stay Healthy This Fall!
Welcome to another exciting school year! I am delighted to be a part of your students' success at MCC. As the weather gets cooler, germs tend to spread more easily. Here’s how we can all work together to prevent illness:
Frequent handwashing: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue, or cough into your elbow, not your hands.
Keep hands away from your face: Remind students to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent germs from entering the body.
Stay home when sick: If your child has a fever or feels unwell, please keep them home from school. They should be fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication before returning. More information on when to keep your student home from school can be found on the MCC website's Health Office page.
Get your flu shot: An annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications. The flu shot is readily available at doctor's offices and local pharmacies.
Boost your immunity: Encourage healthy habits at home, including eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, and getting plenty of rest.
Practice dental hygiene: Since October is National Dental Hygiene Month, it's a great time to reinforce healthy teeth habits. Remind students to brush their teeth twice a day and floss daily.
Some additional tips to help your student have a successful school year include:
Encourage healthy meals: Involve your children in planning nutritious lunches and snacks that include protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to boost their immune system and keep them energized.
Promote an active lifestyle: The CDC recommends 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Encourage participation in sports, after-school activities, or family walks or bike rides.
Prioritize mental health: Create an environment of open communication where your child feels safe discussing their feelings and concerns. This can be especially helpful if they are feeling anxiety about new classes, teachers, or social situations.
Plan family time: Schedule regular, screen-free time to connect. Eating meals together or having a designated time for one-on-one activities can strengthen family bonds and help you stay in tune with your child's life.
Monitor for stress: Watch for signs of stress or anxiety and praise your child's efforts and resilience when facing challenges, rather than focusing only on accomplishments.
We are wishing you all a safe and healthy school year, as always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns about your student’s health.
In health,
Desirée Haupert
MCC Health Services Coordinator