Do you want to protect your kids from swine flu? That’s understandable. There’s so much being said in the media about the novel H1N1 (swine flu virus) and the regular, seasonal flu virus that’s transmitted via human-to-human contact during flu season (October through May, primarily).

The good news: if you can ace these five parental tips, you can help keep your kids (and yourself) virus-free and well-schooled on flu 101. Here’s what you need to know and do to keep you and your family healthy, particularly as we enter back-to-school season.

1. Get vaccinated when the vaccines become available. There will be a seasonal flu vaccine and an H1N1 vaccine available in mid-October, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
   African Americans have lower influenza immunization rates compared to the rest of the population according to the (CDC). Myths, a lack of awareness of the need for immunization, cost (prices for shots range from $10 to $20, but most health plans will cover the expense these days) and irregular visits to primary care physicians all play roles in this health gap. Make it a point to get yourself and your children vaccinated and you’ll be well-prepared for flu season.
   
   
2. Teach your kids the importance of hand washing and using sanitizing gels, wipes, etc., as needed.
   Addressing the spread of germs in schools is essential to the health of our youth, our schools and our nation. What role can you play? Teach your kids good hand-washing hygiene. Here are the ABC’s of hand washing:A.    Tell your kids to wet their hands with warm water;
   B.    Apply a plain, non-antimicrobial soap (this means it does not contain an antiseptic ingredient);
   C.    Rub your hands together vigorously for 20 seconds, rubbing the wrists, between the fingers, and under the fingernails,
   D.    Rinse your hands thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.
   E.    Shut the faucet off with a paper towel, especially if you’re washing your hands in a public bathroom.
   F.    Lastly, use a paper towel to turn the knob and to exit the bathroom. (Remember, some viruses and bacteria can live from 20   minutes up to 2 hours or more on hard surfaces like doorknobs.)
3. Let go of your fear of needles, vaccines, etc.
   Flu shots cannot give you the flu. The best time to get an annual flu shot is in October and November; and if you’re at an increased risk (adults over age 50, children 6 months to 2 years and health care workers) you should make getting a flu shot a top priority.
   
   
4. Eat right, exercise and get eight hours of sleep.
   Students (and adults) need to get plenty of sleep and physical activity, drink water, and eat good food to stay healthy in the winter and all year. Don’t cheat your immune system by not doing the healthy basics: eating well, exercising often, and getting a good night’s sleep on most days of the week.
   
   
5. Practice makes perfect and reminders are helpful, too.
   Kids forget sometimes, as well as adults. It’s important to practice your flu-prevention basics daily. While you should aim to wash your hands at least three times per day, it’s also important to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue after coughing or sneezing. And, don’t forget to remind them not to touch their eyes, nose or mouth during the day. Germs are often spread this way.