Back-to-School Health Tips: How to Keep Your Family Healthy This School Year

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, it’s time to shift gears from vacation mode to school schedules, packed lunches, and after-school activities. But with the return to classrooms also comes increased exposure to germs, illnesses, and seasonal bugs that can quickly disrupt your family’s routine. That’s why it’s important to prioritize your family’s health now, before the school year is in full swing.

Whether you're preparing for preschool, grade school, or college, here are some smart tips to help your household stay healthy, and when the unexpected happens, our urgent care in Salisbury, MD, and our urgent care in Delmar, MD, are here to help.

Young girl with doctor

Start the School Year with a Check-Up

A back-to-school check-up is a great way to ensure your child is healthy and ready for the year ahead. From physicals and vaccinations to sports clearance exams, our providers can make sure your child meets all school health requirements. If you're running out of time or can't get in to see your regular doctor, walk into our urgent care in Salisbury, MD, or our urgent care in Delmar, MD—no appointment needed.

Child cleaning his hands

Teach Smart Hygiene Habits Early

Handwashing is still one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Remind your children to wash their hands:

  • Before eating

  • After using the restroom

  • After coughing or sneezing

  • When they get home from school

Sending your child to school with hand sanitizer is also a good idea, especially if they're in environments where sinks aren’t always available.

A young sick girl

Keep an Eye Out for Common School Illnesses

Back-to-school season often brings a spike in colds, strep throat, pink eye, and the flu. If your child starts showing signs of illness, like fever, sore throat, or coughing, it’s best to keep them home to rest and avoid spreading germs to classmates.

Need a quick diagnosis or treatment? Our urgent care Salisbury, MD, and urgent care Delmar, MD, locations offer fast, kid-friendly care for all those last-minute symptoms that show up at the worst possible time.

A sad child

Don't Overlook Mental Health

The start of a new school year can bring stress, anxiety, or behavioral changes, especially for kids adjusting to new routines or environments. Listen to your child’s concerns and keep open communication. If mental health issues persist, consider speaking to a professional.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Even when you do everything right, kids still get sick or injured. When that happens, you don’t have to wait for a primary care appointment or spend hours in the ER. Our urgent care clinics in Salisbury, MD, and Delmar, MD, are open 7 days a week with extended hours to handle everything from sore throats to sprained ankles.

Let us help you and your family stay healthy this school year, so you can focus on learning, growing, and thriving.

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