Back-to-School with Bronchiectasis

It's back-to-school time and there's excitement in the air. But for teachers with respiratory conditions, it can also be a time of concern.
I recently checked in with clients who are teachers to see what types of extra precautions they might be planning to take.
I was happy to hear that since COVID, conditions in schools have improved. There is better ventilation and scheduled cleaning of surfaces. 
However, many of the schools are old and still have issues with ventilation and mold. 
Also, for teachers of young children, there is always the issue of children who come to school sneezing and coughing.


Other potential sources of concern are:
🦠Vocal strain from projecting in the classroom and disciplining
🦠Shared equipment like microscopes and other learning materials
🦠Close quarters, not only with the students but also in teacher break rooms and restrooms 
🦠Chalk dust
🦠Increased stress


Some of the preventive actions teachers are taking include:
⭐️Planning for extra sleep
 ⭐️Taking vitamin C and zinc through the fall and winter 
⭐️Reinforcing proper hygiene with students
⭐️Prepping meals on the weekend for nutritious eating including homemade lunches 
⭐️Purchasing a UV water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
 ⭐️Purchasing extra Aerobikas and nebulizing cups to ensure that with their busy schedule they always have clean equipment
⭐️Purchasing a steam baby bottle sterilizer to make sterilization easier
⭐️Wearing a mask when possible
⭐️ Putting an air purifier in your classroom
If you had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Chuck Daley last week, you heard him make a great suggestion regarding exposure. When we feel we've had a large exposure to potential disease-causing situations, we should be proactive with airway clearance.
This might mean using an Aerobika or taking a brisk walk during your lunch break. Then, when possible, doing airway clearance the moment we get home, even if it's just nebulizing saline. And, later following up with a more dedicated session.
Are you a teacher? What practices do you plan to put in place with this new school season? Not a teacher, but have ideas?
Please share!
#Bronchiectasis #RespiratoryInfections #BackToSchool