Flu season has arrived in Manassas, but with a few simple strategies, you can protect your family. Here’s what you need to know.

Get Your Flu Vaccine

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu. Everyone 6 months and older should get their annual flu shot, ideally in early fall before flu activity peaks. The vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective, so don’t wait.

Note: Children getting vaccinated for the first time may need two doses spaced four weeks apart.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Handwashing remains one of your best defenses against flu viruses. Encourage your kids to wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—singing a favorite song helps pass the time and makes it more enjoyable.

Key times to wash: before meals, after using the bathroom, after playing outside, and after coughing or sneezing.

Teach Proper Cough and Sneeze Etiquette

Show your children how to cough or sneeze into their elbow rather than their hands. This simple habit significantly reduces the spread of germs. Practice at home so it becomes automatic—many kids find it fun to “catch” their sneeze like a vampire in a cape.

Keep Sick Children Home

We know it’s challenging, but keeping feverish children home from school protects other children and gives your child time to recover. Kids should be fever-free for 24 hours without medication before returning to school or daycare.

Support Healthy Habits

A strong immune system makes a difference. Focus on the basics: adequate sleep, nutritious meals, regular physical activity, and plenty of water. These fundamentals help your child’s body fight off infections naturally.

Clean High-Touch Surfaces

During flu season, regularly wipe down frequently touched items like doorknobs, light switches, tablets, and toys. You don’t need to deep-clean constantly—just focus on these hotspots where germs tend to linger.

When to Contact Us

Most children recover from the flu at home with rest and fluids. However, call our office if your child has:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• High fever over 104°F or fever lasting more than 3-4 days
• Signs of dehydration (no tears when crying, significantly decreased urination)
• Symptoms that improve then suddenly worsen
• Any concerns that something isn’t quite right

Trust your instincts—remember, you know your child best.

Stay Prepared, Not Worried

Flu season is manageable with the right approach. Get vaccinated, maintain good hygiene, keep sick kids home to rest, and support healthy habits. That’s really the foundation of flu prevention.

If your family does get sick despite your best efforts, remember that rest, comfort, and time usually do the trick. We’re here at Night Watch Manassas if you need us.