BLOG: Avoid Bugs This Winter with Dr Garry Adair-Gilliland

19th, Nov 2024

As the chilly months roll in, so do the germs! But don’t worry, Dr Garry Adair-Gilliland, Private GP at Kingsbridge Private Hospital is here to help you understand what to watch for, when to call the doctor and how to build a strong defence against those pesky bugs.

What Are the Most Common Winter Illnesses in Children in Northern Ireland?

Winter is practically the Olympics for germs, and our little ones are their favourite team! In Northern Ireland (and everywhere it seems), here are the main culprits:

• The Common Cold– Runny nose, sneezes, and maybe a cough that seems to linger forever.
• Flu– A bit more intense than a cold, flu often comes with fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)– Particularly common in babies and young children, RSV can cause a cough, wheezing, and even breathing difficulty.
• Norovirus (Stomach Bug)– Known for its dramatic entrance, this can bring tummy troubles and usually sends everyone on high alert.
• Ear Infections– Often popping up after a cold, these can cause ear pain and make your little one tug at their ears more than usual.

 

When Should I Take My Child to See a Doctor If They Have Cold or Flu Symptoms?

We know it can be hard to figure out when you should bring your child to the doctor and when it’s okay to just keep an eye on things at home. Here’s a quick guide:

Visit a doctor if:

• Your child has trouble breathing, or you notice fast or laboured breathing.
• High fever that doesn’t improve with fever reducers or lasts longer than 3 days.
• Severe ear pain, especially if it follows a cold.
• Dehydration signs, like dry mouth, no tears when crying, or fewer wet nappies.
• They’re unusually drowsy or irritable.

A general rule of thumb is that if you’re concerned, trust your instincts and get advice. Sometimes quick reassurance from the doctor makes all the difference.

 

How Can I Prevent My Child from Catching Bugs This Winter?

• Handwashing, Handwashing, Handwashing– Germs spread fast, but soap and water are surprisingly effective at stopping them in their tracks.
• Keep a Healthy Distance– Teach kids to avoid close contact with anyone who’s clearly under the weather.
• Avoid Touching Faces– It’s easier said than done, especially for young children, but less face-touching means fewer germs sneaking in through noses, eyes, and mouths.

While no strategy is fool proof, these small habits go a long way in creating a protective shield.

 

What Are Some Good Ways to Boost a Child’s Immune System During Winter?

A strong immune system is your child’s best friend during the winter months. Here’s how you can support it:

• Feed the Immune System– Think nutrient-rich fruits and veggies, especially those packed with vitamins C and D (citrus fruits, leafy greens, sweet potatoes).
• Stay Active– Even when it’s chilly outside, try to get kids moving. Fun winter activities, like a brisk walk or some snow play (if we’re lucky!), can help keep their immune systems ticking.
• Sleep Well– Children need plenty of sleep, and it is amazing how much good quality rest can make a difference in their body’s ability to fight off bugs.
• Limit Sugary Treats– We know it’s tempting, especially with festive treats around, but too much sugar can sometimes interfere with immune function.

 

Can Parents Do Anything to Prevent Illnesses at Daycare or School?

If your child is in day-care or school, it can seem almost inevitable they’ll bring home a bug or two. But a few steps can help minimize the risks:

• Encourage Good Hygiene Practices– Help them understand how important it is to wash their hands after sneezing, coughing, and using the bathroom.
• Teach “Catch the Cough”– Teaching kids to cough or sneeze into their elbows rather than their hands helps prevent germs from spreading to every surface they touch.
• Practice Sharing (But Not Germs)– While sharing is usually caring, encourage kids to avoid sharing personal items like water bottles, utensils, or hats at school.

 

Take care of your child’s health this Winter! If you have any concerns or would like to speak to Dr Adair-Gilliland or one of our other Private GPs, get in touch by emailing KPHPrivateGP@kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com or by booking online at kingsbridgegpclinic.com

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