As kids head back to school, parents have more on their minds than just school supplies. Alongside flu, chickenpox, measles, and mono, COVID-19 remains a concern.
According to the CDC, COVID-19 cases are rising in 45 states, with the Western U.S. experiencing the highest activity. A new variant, XFG Stratus, is gaining traction as students return to crowded classrooms and busy hallways.
COVID symptoms vary depending on the variant, whether someone is vaccinated or has a weakened immune system, but common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough, sore throat, or runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue, body aches, or headaches
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Since fever is a main symptom regular temperature checks are important. Using a thermometer like Exergen’s TempoTherm or TAT-2000C Temporal Artery Thermometer that is accurate, fast, reliable, easy to use, non-invasive, and requires just a gentle swipe across the forehead by softly touching it.
If your child is feeling sick, especially with respiratory symptoms, they should stay home and avoid close contact with others. For people at higher risk, early treatment can make a big difference.
Watch for serious signs like trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or pale or bluish skin, and seek medical care if those appear.
To stay protected, the CDC recommends:
- Keeping up with COVID-19 vaccines
- Practicing good hygiene
- Improving indoor air circulation
- Wearing masks and distancing during high-risk times
As always, prevention goes a long way especially when the school year brings everyone together again.
Sources,
- American Hospital Association, https://www.aha.org/news/headline/2025-08-11-cdc-says-covid-19-cases-growing-or-likely-growing-45-states
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