Back-to-school safety reminders

Back-to-school readiness means more than just new school supplies, backpacks and books. As parents prepare themselves and their families for going back to school, there are some things to keep in mind that can help facilitate a happy and healthy school year.

Ensuring that your child receives a routine well-child visit that includes ensuring up to date vaccinations that protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella; chickenpox; flu; polio; and diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, before beginning the school year is key.

State laws determine vaccination requirements for children heading back to school. The New Mexico Department of Health maintains a list that generally parallels vaccines that are required or recommended in most states.

Please note: Not all vaccines are included here, and some recommendations vary if your child has certain underlying medical conditions.

Talk to your doctor, and ask if your child can safely receive these common protective shots for the following diseases:

• COVID-19, the number of doses depends on your child’s age and type of Covid-19 vaccine used.

• For influenza (flu), the number of doses recommended depends on your child’s age and previous vaccination history.

• Human papilloma virus (HPV) is specifically for children 11-12 years old but can be given as early as age 9. A three-shot series is recommended for those with weakened immune systems and those who start the series after their 15th birthday.

• Meningococcal meningitis is specifically for children beginning at age 11.

Depending on age, make sure your child is up to date on vaccines that protect against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, polio and hepatitis A and B.

Children of all ages would benefit from a well-child visit before school starts. Students in middle school through college might also need a sports physical exam, often required to participate in school-organized sports. During a sports physical, your pediatrician can review any history of concussion or head injuries and evaluate heart health. This visit can also ensure their medical records and health history are up to date.

Mental health awareness

Vital to a child’s overall wellness is their mental health. Though New Mexico’s Emergency Covid-19 Public Health Order ended March 31, mental health remains more critical than ever due to alarming statistics attributed to pandemic-driven social disruptions.

Some important facts and guidelines to be aware of include:

One in six children between the ages of 6-17 experiences a mental health condition every year, and 50 percent of mental illnesses begin by age 14, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Mental health problems often accompany other dangers such as increased drug use and violence, and high-risk sexual behaviors.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 and the third leading cause of death among those aged 15-24.

In addition, bullying, defined as a form of unwanted aggressive behavior, can result in physical injury and social or emotional distress. It can include electronic aggression or bullying that occurs through email or through cell phones, all of which can cause or exacerbate mental health challenges.

Sharing concerns and fostering family awareness are key to supporting children through emotional, social and mental health issues surrounding their return to school. For young people especially, a feeling of connectedness can be a protective factor that can help reduce all manner of health risk, from physical to mental. Building strong bonds and relationships with adults and friends at school and at home provides kids with a sense of community.

If your child or someone you know has thoughts about self-harm or suicide, seek help right away – call 911, go the nearest emergency room, or talk with a trained counselor. You can always call or text 988 to reach the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Nutrition is fundamental

Contributing to a child’s overall well-bring is their diet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025, recommends that children 2 years old and older follow a healthy eating pattern that includes:

• A variety of vegetables and fruits

• Whole grains

• Fat-free and low-fat dairy products

• A variety of protein foods and oils

Federal guidelines recommend limiting saturated fats, trans fatty acids and added sugars, and to reduce sodium intake.

Schools are critical in supporting children and families, and can provide health services and opportunities for students to engage in physical activities that help with academic, social and mental health. Parents and schools can work together to relieve stress and protect students against negative outcomes. From that first day of school, start them off right.

Dr. Pawitta Kasemsap is an Optum New Mexico pediatrician.