The following are a few things to think about, according to months.

September

EEE (Eastern Equine Encephalitis) peaks the end of August & into Sept. Take precautions to get rid of any standing water, wear clothing that covers the arms/legs during peak times of dawn & dusk, and, if you are able to, apply repellent.

Layer clothing; it can be cool in the morning, then quite warm by the afternoon.

Stomach aches start the very first day of school and continue throughout the school year.

Fall pollen allergies peak around this time.

It's always a good idea to check your child for head lice periodically, esp. after vacations or taking trips.

October

It can get quite chilly; coats are a good idea on those mornings. Layering clothing helps when inside the classrooms.

It's getting dark earlier, put bright or reflective-tape clothing on when staying out in the dark.

With the temperature fluctuations, colds are getting started.

We have seen a few cases of break-through chicken pox around this time.

November

Time for those (who need it) to get the flu vaccine.

Holiday travel is a wonderful time to share with family & friends, but not our hats, combs, headbands, etc. Lice are always looking for a new home.

Indoor allergies start to be noticed when the houses are closed up tight for the winter months to come.

Be careful about giving aspirin during virus season, Reye's Syndrome.

Watch out for Black Ice, walking as well as driving.

Remember to keep exhaust areas clear of debris/snow to prevent carbon monoxide build-up into the house.

December

Start of the flu season. The chicken soup link may be of interest. The stomach viruses are not the flu, although it can make you feel quite ill.

If you are at high risk, this may be the time for you to get a flu vaccine.

We all need to watch the goodies that we eat. Exercise of your choice if a good habit to get into, and the family can do things together.

There are always cold days; check out the wind chill link.

Watch out for frostbite; the young & elderly are particularly susceptible.

Keeping exhausts free of snow is necessary, and black ice is still around, sometimes with snow on top.

January

Even with all the eating over the holiday season, children should not diet except under the supervision of their physician. The best way to have children loose weight, or to keep a healthy weight, is to eat proper serving sizes of healthy foods. Using the food guidelines link can be helpful.

Again, periodically check your child's head for lice.

Check out the info. about Reye's Syndrome.

Keeping exhausts free to prevent back-up of carbon monoxide into the home.

It can be quite cold, watch for frost bite on exposed skin.

This is usually the height of the flu season. If ill, please refrain from contact with other people, esp. those very young and old. Watch for signs of complications.

February

It's still the flu season. The flu is a respiratory virus, not stomach.

It is 'Heart Month'; you may want to share with your children some things to do to have a healthy heart/life style. Exercise and eating healthy food are a part of this.

When children are outside, keep clothing dry. Wet clothing lets more heat escape

March

Check the wind chill for a better idea for dressing on those windy days; it is still cold.

Exercise to get into shape for spring and get limber after the winter.

If you plan on traveling in April, make sure you are up to date on any vaccines needed. Ask your doctor/nurse to review your information. Adults need updates, too, and these are sometimes overlooked. Check with the DPH for any warnings in the area that you intend to visit.

April

Watch for poison ivy; it can be active even with snow on the ground.

Layer clothing. Cool mornings can lead into warmer afternoons.

If walking in tall grass/woods, tuck your slacks into your boots or socks. Check yourself and your pets for ticks when you return.

Stay away from stray animals. If you have questions concerning rabies in your area, call your local veterinarian's office. The Board of Health also has local info.

May

Layer clothing; some afternoons are very warm or hot. Wear appropriate footwear for running & climbing at recess. Sandals can be hazardous.

Check for ticks; May flies are out; mosquitoes will be starting.

Wear protective clothing when out at dawn and dusk. Wear repellant if you are able to. Empty stagnant water.

Use sunscreen & hats if out in the sun, esp. strong sun between 11 am to 2 pm. Protective, light clothing will also help.

June

It can be very hot; wear safe shoes or sneakers, along with light layered clothing.

Water bottles or secure containers of water can be used all day long.

Be sun-safe, using sunscreen, hats, protective clothing, esp. during exposure to sun during peak hours of the day.

Review water safety rules with children, along with supervision when in the water

Use insect repellant if you are able to, check for ticks on people and pets.

Stay away from stray or wild animals.

If questions arise about any insect-borne disease (Lyme or EEE), contact your doctor or the public health department.