As We Head Into November, We Also Head Into Cold And Flu Season

KYW Medical Report Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- As we head into November we also head into cold and flu season—our kids are particularly vulnerable.

Did you ever notice how easily infections seem to spread in schools?  One of the common viruses that we deal with is a virus, called norovirus. This gets a lot of attention because it usually causes acute outbreaks of nausea vomiting and diarrhea. But there are numerous viruses that can attack and they spread easily in groups. These illnesses can be  spread by direct person to person contact or from objects. A great example of this is the contamination of a shared computer keyboard and mouse can contribute to spreading illness. Kids in school share many things, thus the easy spread.

There are helpful steps you can take. Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, those who are ill should stay away from others, and shared surfaces and equipment should be disinfected.