On the subject of cleanliness, it’s important to disinfect objects with which your youngster frequently comes into contact. The flu virus can live up to eight hours, so it’s vital to remove germs from toys, doorknobs, TV remote controls and other germ hotspots.

Stay Away from Sick People

Your child is much more likely to become infected if he or she is in constant contact with other unwell people. While it’s not possible to keep your kids out of school or daycare, try to keep them from coming into contact with large crowds, especially if influenza is hitting your community hard. These include movie theaters, inside playgrounds, malls and gym daycares.

Get Plenty of Sleep

According to many pediatricians, sleep deprivation nearly doubles the risk of whether or not your child will catch a bug. The average baby needs about 14 hours of sleep a day; toddlers and kids up to age 6 need 11-13 hours; 7- to 12-year-olds should average 10 to 11; and those 13-18 need 8 to 9 hours.

Not getting enough rest can overwork the immune system and may leave it less than functional, putting children at an added risk. This can easily allow a virus to take hold.

Feed Them Immunity-Boosting Foods

For an immune-boosting, flu-fighting diet, well-known pediatrician and author Dr. William Sears recommends feeding your kids superfoods that are chock-full of phytonutrients, which include the most colorful fruits and veggies you can find. His other favorite flu-busting food is omega-3-rich wild salmon. Add probiotic-rich yogurt, garlic-infused chicken noodle soup and green tea to complete a healthy food plan. If you have a picky eater who turns up a nose at anything healthy, a daily multivitamin can ensure he or she receives proper nutrients.