Do you have sniffling, sneezing, sick kids at home? Or maybe you're home sick today. It's that time of the year and doctors say if you or your kids don't get the rest you need, you'll just be dragging out your healing time.

Your mom probably told you to do it, and now the experts confirm, washing your hands is the first step to preventing colds.

But when all the preventative methods have failed, and your child is sick, it’s time to decide, do they just need a little rest or is it time to keep them home from school?

Luther Midelfort Doctor Paul Green says, “Unfortunately kids are always sick.”

Both nurse and doctor agree, taking some time out to rest and rejuvenate can do wonders for a sick body.

Eau Claire Public Health Nurse Erin Morrison says, “Because often times our kids are tired and driven, just like adults are tired and driven.”

She also says there are some major differences between the cold and the flu and how you should treat them. The cold can come on slowly, while flu symptoms can appear suddenly. If you have a fever, doctors say you should stay home.

Morrison also said the flu attacks your entire body, making it ache all over, whereas a cold will make you uncomfortable, but not to the point a flu will. Doctors say we should also get a flu shot.

Morrison says, “I think that's a really important thing you can do for your health and for the health of your community.”

Green says versus dealing with the flu, a shot may be worth the quick sting instead, “A lot of people come in and say I wish I were dead, you know its not much fun, flu shots are much better.”

Morrison said they recommend getting the flu shot for anyone ages 6 months on up.

For more information on preventing the cold and flu click on the link below.