Dr. Whitaker is back with us to talk about back-to-school health. He explains how children get virus and why it’s more common for some children than others. We also chat about how stress and the introduction of new viruses during the holiday season also play a role. Dr. Whitaker gives some ideas on ways to minimize risks of getting sick so often and how often is actually “normal” to get sick for school aged children.

Takeaways

• Respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces are common ways to contract viruses.
• Children's immature immune systems and increased exposure to other children in school contribute to their susceptibility to illness.
• Stress and the introduction of new viruses during the holiday season can weaken the immune system.
• Maintaining good hygiene, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet can support the immune system.
• Vaccines can help the immune system develop a memory for fighting specific viruses.

Find Dr. Whitaker here:

Austin's Concierge Pediatrician | Direct Primary Care | Lakeway (bluemonarchpediatrics.com)
IG: @‌bluemonarchpediatrics

This episode is sponsored by BirthCo. Mention this podcast at your first appointment at BirthCo and get 20% off any of their services.
http://www.birth-co.com  

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Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

• (00:00 ) - Introduction and Disclaimer
  


• (01:12 ) - Back-to-School Health
  


• (02:05 ) - How Children Get Viruses
  


• (03:53 ) - Factors Contributing to Children's Susceptibility to Illness
  


• (15:28 ) - Tips for Boosting Children's Immune Systems
  


• (25:37 ) - The Role of Vaccines in Immune System Development
  


• (28:20 ) - Conclusion