Influenza (flu)
Influenza has already been confirmed as of Nov 1st in our area. This is an early start to the influenza season. Influenza usually peaks in February. The current vaccine does contain the strains that are circulating this season and vaccination is recommended for everyone older than 6 months of age. It is not too late for a flu shot. Vaccinations are encouraged throughout the flu season. If your child(ren) have not been vaccinated, please discuss this with your healthcare provider.
The most important thing you can do is to keep your child home if he or she is ill. Each morning, parents and caregivers should check their children for flu symptoms or other signs of illness such as:
- Fever (temperature over 100.0)
- Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
- Cough or sore throat.
If your child has a fever (100.0 degrees F or higher), please do not send him/her to school. If other flu like symptoms occur, it is best to keep your child home and monitor the symptoms. It is likely your child will be home sick for 3 to 5 days if they are diagnosed with influenza. Children should be completely well for 24 hours before returning to school. Children should not be sent to school until they have been fever-free for 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medications.
The local health department requires the school to monitor students for flu-like symptoms, among other illness. When you notify the school of your child’s absence, please include this information:
- Headache
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Body aches
- Sore throat
- Fever (greater than 100 degrees F)
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Other
To avoid catching or spreading any illness:
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough/sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash immediately after use.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. These are portals of entry for germs.
- Practice social distancing. Avoid individuals who are sick or experiencing symptoms.
- Practice healthy habits: getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water.
