How to navigate flu season when your kid is the ultimate germ magnet.

Thanks to our brand partner, Ramsay Pharmacy

Bugs from daycare and school on a regular day are hard enough to deal with — but when flu season hits, it can feel completely overwhelming.

Just when you think you've recovered from one bug, another rolls in to keep things interesting.

As the weather cools and flu germs begin to spread, there are simple, practical steps we can take to support the wellbeing of every family member.

To help us feel a little more prepared (mentally, emotionally and physically), Sarah Chambers, Retail Pharmacist at Ramsay Pharmacy and mum of three, shared her tips for getting through this time of year.

Preventative steps are key.

There are plenty of ways to prepare for cold and flu season, but prevention is one of the best places to start.

The flu vaccine is one option that parents might consider — it can be given to kids from six months of age and is recommended in government immunisation guidelines as a way to help reduce the risk of complications from the flu.

"It's best to get the flu vaccination earlier in the season as it offers protection through the peak flu months," said Chambers.

While it's not part of the routine immunisation schedule, the flu vaccine is available in-store at your local Ramsay Pharmacy, often with no appointment needed.

"It's generally well tolerated, and while some people worry they might get sick from it, the flu vaccine doesn't contain a live virus, so it can't give you the flu," Chambers added.

Stop the spread (as best you can).

"Kids and older adults are more vulnerable to complications from the flu, so taking steps to reduce the spread can be especially important for them," said Chambers. "We also want to avoid spreading it to grandparents because they're also part of that vulnerable community."

It might seem like a small and obvious step, but keeping your kids home when they're unwell can help protect classmates, teachers and other families — including those who are more at risk of serious illness.

To prepare for flu season and protect the whole family, Chambers suggested putting certain things in place now to avoid getting sick from the flu and cold germs in the future.

"No matter how young your little ones are, now is a good time to start teaching them about germs and why hygiene matters," said Chambers.

"My favourite way to do this is by making handwashing fun with activities like the bubble glove — we cover our hands in soap to create a bubbly glove, then try to wash it off by singing 'Happy Birthday' twice in a row."

Chambers also recommended introducing cough etiquette, including sneezing into the elbow rather than hands. "Treat it like a dance move and say, 'You don't want to let the germs escape'." 

Finally, Chambers suggested explaining what germs are and why it's important to keep ourselves safe from nasty bugs.

"You can even encourage your kids to remind their friends, 'You might need to wash your hands after you sneeze'," she added. "Kids learn a lot from each other and enjoy sharing what they know."

Support your immune health.

If you're thinking of ways to support your family's health, Chambers recommended considering options that may benefit everyone, including supplements to support general wellbeing.

Chambers also said spending time outside to enjoy fresh air and sunshine is beneficial. "Sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D."

Additionally, she said staying well hydrated is important. "Make sure their (and your) water bottle is always full and that they're consistently taking small sips throughout the day," she said. "Keeping hydrated can support overall comfort and wellbeing, which is especially helpful if the kids aren't feeling their best."

Stock up on supplies.

Is there anything worse than waking up to the sounds of a sick kid in the middle of the night and realising you're missing the basics?

To avoid this all-too-common face-palm moment, Chambers suggested checking and topping up once or twice a year — ideally before winter kicks in.

"That way, families can feel more prepared," she said.

If you're unsure about what to have on hand, don't hesitate to speak with your pharmacist for guidance.

Check your eligibility and book your flu vaccination appointment at Ramsay Pharmacy online.

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any vaccination, always seek health and medical advice from a qualified pharmacist or your healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Getty.

Book your flu vaccination online at ramsaypharmacy.com.au A healthier flu season starts with you... and a little help from Ramsay Pharmacy.