Flu season to arrive at Houston schools next month

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- It's not a matter of if but when your child will get sick after going back to school.

"They are in a crowded classroom," says pediatrician Dr. Katherine Lusk, "They are sharing object like pencils or lunch."

For school-aged kids between 6 and 8 years old, the common cold is the first ailment your student will see this year.

"Typically a series of symptoms like cough, congestion, sore throat, fever," Lusk says.

Back to school bugs like the stomach virus also start to go around at the outset of the school year.

Teacher and custodians are working to prevent illness across campus, and hand sanitizers are often used in the classroom and often in the lunch line.

Custodians also use hospital grade sanitizers when wiping down tables and chairs.

Next month, the battle intensifies as the flu season kicks off.

For this week, the lesson is prevention. Cover your cough, don't share drinks or food with your friends, wash your hands properly and if you're sick, stay home.

"Go see your physician if your child is exhibiting symptoms that are persistent over a 24-hour period," Lusk says.