Flu season is well under way, and it is important that we work together to keep our children healthy. Viruses spread easily among children.  You can help prevent the spread of illness and flu or help your child get better if he/she does get sick by following a few simple steps

• You and your child could benefit from getting a flu shot

  Remind your child to cover his/her nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing and dispose of the tissue immediately

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds

• Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and shared items at least once a day

• Ensure that bathrooms are stocked with soap, hand towels and tissues

• Teach your child not to touch his/her mouth, nose and eyes

• If your child is sick and has a fever, keep him/her at home to prevent the spread of illness to others (including staying home until fever free without the use of medication)

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people

Common symptoms of flu include: high fever, severe headache, muscle and body aches, exhaustion, and dry cough. Additionally, children often exhibit other flu symptoms that are rare in adults, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If your child develops symptoms and you are concerned that they might have the flu, call your doctor early, especially if they have a chronic disease (eg.asthma).  The physician may prescribe an antiviral medication, which can help lessen the duration of the virus and reduce the risk of complications, such as pneumonia. To be effective, antiviral medication should be taken within 12-48 hours after flu symptoms begin.

Remember, Immunization Exclusion Day is Wednesday, February 18, 2015

If your child is missing any school required immunizations, or if you have not shared the up-dated record with the school, please do so as soon as possible, so that they won’t miss school

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Martha Covrig RN BSN, MPH, GP#7 District Nurse (Flu information adapted from the National Association of School Nurses and Center for Disease Control)