Lithuania: Parental sick leave rights and child immunity tips

As autumn begins and viruses spread more rapidly in educational institutions, parents in Lithuania are reminded of their legal rights and nutritional strategies to support children's health.

Regarding social security, Sodra provides sick leave benefits for parents caring for children under 14 years old. This benefit covers up to 14 calendar days. For children aged 14 and older, the benefit is limited to 7 calendar days. While a doctor may extend a medical certificate for longer illnesses, the paid benefit period remains capped at the specified limits, with any additional time treated as justified absence from work. The sick leave payment is approximately 65.94% of the gross salary, but due to different taxation rules, parents receive nearly 100% of their previous average net income.

To bolster children's immunity during the seasonal transition, pediatric experts recommend a diet rich in specific nutrients. Key foods include broccoli, eggs, garlic, leafy greens, legumes, red meat, nuts, seeds, and oats. These foods provide essential vitamins such as C, A, D, and E, as well as antioxidants, iron, zinc, and selenium to help maintain a strong immune system.