Kids likely to catch back-to-school bugs during first few weeks– study shows

Kenneth Fox

Children typically bring home four to five illnesses each school year, often starting as early as October - just weeks into the new term, according to new research from Holland & Barrett.

These back-to-school bugs have a tangible impact on families, with parents missing an average of 3.4 workdays annually, rising to four days for parents of primary school children.

With the new school year underway, the research reveals that one in three parents (33 per cent) worry about their child falling ill, rising to 41 per cent among primary school parents.

These back-to-school bugs can have a tangible impact on families, with parents missing an average of 3.4 workdays annually, rising to four days for parents of primary school children.

In response, families are taking preventative measures: nearly half (46 per cent) report using supplements support immunity, while others use flu vaccinations (43 per cent) or implement stricter home hygiene routines (41 per cent).

Beyond physical health, parents are also concerned about emotional and academic pressures.

One in three (33 per cent) worry about their child settling back into school routines, and 41 per cent are concerned about homework-related stress, with these figures higher among primary school parents.

Speaking on the back-to-school season, Holland & Barrett nutritionist Emily Foster said: "Back-to-school season can be challenging for household immunity, but small changes can make a big difference in supporting both children and parents during this time.

"Starting the day with nutritious food is especially important. Natural yoghurt or kefir provide calcium while colourful fruits like bananas, apples, and kiwis in lunchboxes provide essential fibre and vitamin C.

"Omega-3s can be tricky for kids, but adding salmon to a creamy pasta sauce or sardines to tacos is a great way to support intake. Supplements can also play an important role in supporting immunity, and research by Holland & Barrett shows that nearly half of families (46 per cent) are using supplements as a preventative measure to protect their children’s health."