Don't let the school bugs bite this September

AN education isn’t the only thing kids will be gaining when they start the new school term — the far less desirable result of mixing with other children in the classroom is picking up plenty of childhood bugs.

On average, children catch between nine and 12 viruses a year, and parents may feel they’re constantly unwell.

Paediatrician Dr Donald Macgregor stresses that nutrition plays a big part, with good levels of vitamin A and E important for protecting the gut and airways. “Poor nutrition affects the immune system, and children who are better nourished bounce through illnesses much better than children who aren’t,” he says.