A message from our school nurses about the flu

FAST FACTS ABOUT INFLUENZA

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs.

Symptoms of respiratory flu

  • Fever (Not everyone with flu will have a fever)
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (Tiredness)
  • Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea- more common in children than adults

Keep the flu from spreading

  • Stay away from people who are sick
  • Keep your child home if they aren’t feeling well
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes
  • WASH HANDS OFTEN WITH SOAP AND WATER
  • Do not touch eye, nose and mouth

Returning to school

  • Students can return to school once they are fever free for 24 hours WITHOUT the use of fever reducing medications (Tylenol or Motrin)
  • Symptoms are improving overall
  • CDC recommends enhancing hygiene practices and wearing a mask indoors for the next 5 days after return to school
  • CDC recommends receiving the annual flu vaccine