Top 5 Ways to Survive Flu Season with a Newborn
Flu season can be a worrisome time for new parents. Protecting your precious bundle of joy from illness becomes a top priority... but can also be hard especially if you have a community that wants to come over to see the baby and/or have older siblings that still need to go to school! To help you navigate this challenging period, we've compiled a list of essential tips to keep your newborn safe and healthy. Let's dive in!
1. Limit Contact with Others
During flu season, it's important to limit close contact with others, especially those who may be sick. Instead of having friends and family hold the baby, ask for their help with other tasks such as playing with older siblings, cooking meals, or doing household chores. If you do have older kids heading to school, have them wash their hands thoroughly when they get home from school and before touching the baby. If you are not near a sink, have them use hand sanitizer and wait at least 15 seconds until hands are dry.
2. Maintain a Clean Environment
Keeping your home clean and sanitized is crucial during flu season. Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and toys. Consider using air filters to improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of airborne viruses. By maintaining a clean environment, you can minimize the risk of germs entering your home and protect your newborn.
3. Restrict Exposure to Sick Individuals
To safeguard your newborn, it's important to be cautious about exposure to sick individuals. Request that friends and family members wear masks and thoroughly wash their hands before holding the baby. If someone is feeling unwell or showing symptoms of illness, it's best to kindly ask them to postpone their visit until they have fully recovered. Now is not the time to worry about hurting anyone's feelings. Your job is to keep you and your baby safe until they are a little bigger and can handle germs, stuffy noses and fevers.
4. Regular Pediatrician Check-ups
Regular check-ups with your pediatrician are essential during flu season. Your pediatrician can provide guidance on vaccinations, monitor your baby's health, and offer advice on preventive measures. Be sure to follow their recommendations for vaccinations and any additional precautions to keep your newborn safe. Regular check-ups also provide an opportunity to address any concerns or questions you may have.
5. Personal Health and Well-being
In the midst of caring for your newborn, don't forget to take care of yourself. Maintaining good personal health and well-being is crucial during flu season. Prioritize self-care by getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, and practicing good hygiene. Remember, a healthy and well-rested caregiver is better equipped to take care of a newborn.
Remember, by implementing these preventive measures, you are taking important steps to safeguard your newborn's health. With a little extra care and attention, you can navigate flu season with peace of mind. Stay vigilant, stay healthy, and cherish every precious moment with your newborn.
