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February 17, 2025

Where Every Family Matters

Spike in Illnesses in TN

With infectious germs spreading rapidly in our area, make sure your family is washing their hands often!

Keep those kids washing their hands to offset a spike in illnesses says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza A, COVID-19 and RSV are all at high levels in Tennessee, making it difficult for parents to figure out what’s going on with their kids.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center says the spread of infections is to be expected, especially just after all of the gatherings around the holidays.

What’s going on with your kids?

Teach Kids to Wash Their Hands

William Schaffner, M.D. with Vanderbilt University Medical Center knows it can be challenging to get kids to wash their hands. He says despite how simple it seems, hand-washing is one of the most underrated tools in reducing the spread of infectious germs.

Simple Strategies to Offset the Spike in Illnesses

First, use simple language to explain why washing hands matter.
You can say, “I know you want to keep feeling good and be able to play a lot, so we wash our hands several times a day so we don’t get sick!”

— Make it easy
For little kids, be sure there’s a step stool, soap and a towel by your sink for easy access.

— Bubble Up
Allow your child to play with the sudsy bubbles.

— Make it fun
Have them sing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing.

 

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About the Author

Susan Swindell Day

Susan Day is the editor in chief for this award-winning publication and all-things Nashville Parent digital creative. She's also an Equity actress, screenwriter and a mom of four amazing kids.