As the school year begins in Clyde, NC, local health experts are urging parents to take steps to protect children from seasonal respiratory viruses such as flu, RSV, and COVID-19. The region’s warmer climate can lead to an earlier and longer virus season compared to colder areas, increasing the risk of transmission among children.
Children face greater exposure during fall due to close contact at schools, daycare centers, and extracurricular activities. In these settings, viruses spread through coughs, sneezes, and surface contact. Young children may not consistently practice good hygiene or avoid sharing items like snacks and toys, making them more susceptible to illness.
Key viruses circulating this season include influenza (flu), which can cause high fever and body aches; RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), particularly dangerous for infants and toddlers; and COVID-19. While COVID-19 is often milder in children, those with underlying conditions may experience more severe symptoms.
Health professionals recommend several preventive measures. Parents should teach children proper handwashing techniques—using soap and water for at least 20 seconds—and encourage use of hand sanitizer when necessary. Coughing or sneezing into an elbow or tissue helps limit the spread of germs. It is also important to keep sick children home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
Regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as toys and doorknobs is advised if someone in the household is ill. Improving indoor ventilation by opening windows or using HEPA-filter air purifiers can help reduce virus particles inside homes.
Consulting a pediatrician remains crucial for guidance on vaccinations against flu and COVID-19. Some infants or high-risk children may be eligible for additional protection against RSV through monoclonal antibodies. Parents can visit resources such as the CDC’s guides on RSV (https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/index.html) and flu (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm) for more information.
Medical attention should be sought if a child shows signs of trouble breathing, dehydration, unusual sleepiness or irritability, loss of appetite, or difficulty feeding—especially in infants.
“Because flu and RSV season may begin earlier in warmer areas, prevention should start early too. Many hospitals and pediatric clinics in Clyde, NC see spikes in cases well before colder regions. That makes back-to-school season the perfect time to review prevention habits and check in with your child’s doctor,” according to Haywood Regional Medical Center.
Haywood Regional Medical Center continues to offer pediatric care throughout the season for families across Clyde.
