Communicable diseases have been in the news this year—serious illnesses like Ebola and Enterovirus D68.  The Grants Pass School District has established guidelines for dealing with the unlikely possibility of an Ebola outbreak, however, you would be much more likely to acquire the flu, a cold or stomach viruses.  Fevers, coughs, runny noses, sore throats, aching and headaches increase this time of year.  Good health habits can help you and your family stay well: 1) Avoid contact with people who are sick, 2) Stay home when you are sick, 3) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, 4) Clean your hands by washing often with soap and water and 5) Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.  Getting a flu vaccination can also help prevent illness.  Healthy habits can protect everyone from getting germs or spreading germs at home, work, or school.  Look at the following web sites with your family to learn more about staying well.

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/stopgerms.htm  http://www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention/docs/oop_brochure_eng.pdf  http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/WashYourHands/index.html

Hope you will have a safe and healthy holiday season!

Martha Covrig, RN, BSN, MPH, GP#7 District Nurse