Child wellness in the new school year
The start of the new school year is a time to focus on children's health.
As thousands of kids across Queensland get ready for the new school year, AMA Queensland is reminding parents of some simple measures to help with their children’s health, safety and wellbeing.
“It is critical for parents of children with asthma, allergies and/or anaphylaxis to schedule a checkup with their child’s GP to review their relevant management and action plans. It is also a good time to review medication requirements as children grow, review emergency action plans and also check their inhaler technique,” AMA Queensland President Dr Maria Boulton said.
“It is great to see kids excited for the new school year, but if your child is showing any illness symptoms it is best to keep them home until they can safely return to the classroom.
“We all play an important role in limiting the spread of infectious diseases, and as COVID, other respiratory viruses and gastroenteritis remain a threat, we must remain vigilant.
“Practising good infection control and staying home when unwell will limit the spread to other vulnerable children and the rest of the class. Please check whether your children are up to date with their vaccinations. You can do this by checking the Australian Immunisation Register or asking your GP.
“Starting primary school is also a good time to ensure your child has a vision and hearing screening test, particularly if parents have any concerns.
“We understand many parents fear the heightened vape use among teenagers and we encourage them to discuss the harms of vaping with them.
“While new vaping laws will protect children, we urge parents to stay vigilant around their child’s access to vapes until further regulations are enforced.
“Sun safety is also important and it’s never too soon to start being sun safe. And while there are so many mosquitos around it is also important to be mozzie safe. Mozzies can carry viruses such as Ross River and Dengue.
“Back to school time is an exciting time for many families. But for some it can be stressful and we encourage parents to seek help if they need it.”
