Infectious Diseases in Daycares and Preschools
Are kids who attend daycares and preschools more prone to infections?
YES, there is a 2 to 3 fold increase in risk for respiratory infections, ear infections, and diarrheal disease. The increased risk is independent of age, race, and social class.
Some of those reasons for the increased risk for infections in daycares and preschools are:
Behavioral Habits. Behavioral habits in daycare centers, such as close interpersonal contact with other children and a need for physical contact with adults, increases the risk of diseases that can be spread from person-to-person.
Lack of Personal Hygiene. Small children lack simple hygienic practices, including hand washing or not putting things in their mouths. In a daycare center, failure to heed these practices among other potentially sick children places kids at increased risk. Adults have learned not to touch people and things without washing their hands. Children, however, with an itchy red eye will be more likely to rub their eye and then touch another child or a toy.
Immature Immune System. The presence of an immature immune system that defends poorly against new infections makes small children more prone to new infections to which they have not been exposed. They also may be too young to have completed their vaccination series.
Immature Physical Development. Some children have age-related physical impairments (such as an underdeveloped Eustachian tube) that may make them more prone to ear infections. In addition, prior to potty-training, the necessity for diapers is an underlying cause for increased spread of diarrheal diseases.
Lack of Vaccination. Some Daycares have low rates of vaccination among kids. This means there is no "Herd Immunity" to protect the other kids from infectious diseases.
How can we help?
First, due to the factors above (and others) there is no magical way to completely eliminate the spread of ALL viruses and bacteria. However WE CAN HELP you provide a healthier environment for your little ones and cut down on the spread of infectious diseases. Our service is safe, fast, effective and affordable. Give us a call for a free no obligation review of your establishment and quote today.
We Care and would love to help you Create a Healthier Environment at your facility.