16. How to Manage Back-to-School Illnesses: Flu, Lice, HFMD, Gastro, and Medicine Cabinet Essentials

The Doc Talk Podcast

Welcome to Season 2 of The Doc Talk Podcast! We’re Dr. Shazma Mithani (ER doctor, Edmonton) and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe (family doctor, Toronto) two physicians, moms, and friends here to bring you no-nonsense, evidence-based health information for Canadian families.

Every September, classrooms turn into germ factories. From coughs and fevers to itchy scalps and stomach bugs, it can feel like kids are constantly sick. In this episode, we break it all down:

• Flu & respiratory viruses: how to manage, when to worry, and what’s new in NACI’s 2025–26 flu vaccine guidance
• Lice: real-life management tips, what actually works, and why kids can go back to school right after treatment
• Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD): classic symptoms, comfort care, and when to call the doctor
• Gastro bugs: hydration strategies, red flags, and what to avoid giving kids
• Medicine cabinet essentials: our checklist for surviving back-to-school season

Plus, a quick-fire True or False segment where we bust common myths about flu shots, lice, HFMD, and must-have meds.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or just bracing for viral boot camp, this episode is packed with practical, up-to-date strategies to get your family through September (and beyond).

This episode is brought to you by FIGS. Medicine is more than scrubs—but the scrubs you wear matter. Get 20% OFF your first order of FIGS by heading to wearfigs.com and using code FIGSCA at checkout.

Resources: Lice facts sheet - https://tinyurl.com/246zd7e5

Listen in, subscribe, send us your questions, and share with fellow parents @thedoctalkpod - we're in this together.

Disclaimer: A reminder that The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.