Kids Must Wash Hands To Prevent Getting Sick

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - You might as well face the facts. There is no denying that when the kids go back to school there is a great chance that they will end up getting sick. Usually it is a viral infection that is the cause and there is no doubt that when you get a bunch of children together who may have been traveling in a closed environment they can spread a wide variety of viral infections - everything from upper respiratory infections to stomach viruses.

The number one way to prevent spread never changes. It is very simple. Hand washing is the best way to prevent the spread of these viruses.

The problem is many children - especially those who are young - don't take the time to do it.