HELP KEEP YOUR CHILD HEALTHY AND FLU-FREE

TIPS FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE: HELP KEEP YOUR CHILD HEALTHY AND FLU-FREE

 

With flu season upon us, it is important that we work together to keep our students and each other healthy.  Viruses spread easily among children in schools, and families with school-age children have a higher risk of infection than others.  On average one-third of these family members get sick each year.  Working to keep our children flu-free, we benefit our entire community.  The flu is caused by a virus, therefore it cannot be treated with antibiotics.  Only the flu shot can help prevent the illness.  Children over the age of 6 months and up can receive the flu shot so check with your doctor.  

You can help prevent the spread of the flu or help your child get better if he/she does become sick by following a few simple steps:

• If possible, you and your child should get your flu shot.
• Teach your child to cover their nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Or use hand sanitizer if water is not available.
• Disinfect frequently-touched or shared items often.
• Teach your child to not touch their eyes, nose, and mouth.
• If your child is sick and has a fever, keep them home until 24 hours fever-free to prevent the spread of illness to others.

 

Is it a COLD or the FLU? (From Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

Symptoms                                 Cold                                              Flu

 

Fever                           Rare in adults and older              usually 102 F, but can go up to

                                   children, but can be as                104 F and lasts 3-4 days

                                   high as 102 F in infants

                                   and small children

Headache                    Rare                                          sudden onset and may be severe

Muscle aches              Mild                                           usual, and often severe

Fatigue and

Weakness                   Mild                                           often extreme and can last 2 or

                                                                                    more weeks

Runny nose                Often                                          sometimes

Sneezing                     Often                                         sometimes

Sore throat                 Often                                          sometimes

Cough                        Often                                         often

Nausea,

Vomit &

Diarrhea                      Rarely                                        sometimes in young children

 

If you are concerned about your child’s flu symptoms, call your doctor early.  Always call your doctor immediately if your child has a chronic disease such as diabetes or moderate to severe asthma. Some that are ill may benefit from an antiviral medication which can be prescribed by a doctor and can help lessen the duration and severity of the flu.  To be effective, antiviral medicines should be taken within 12-48 hours after flu symptoms begin.  

 

If you have any questions call your doctor or school nurse.