When we are in the midst of flu season, all parents, guardians, students, faculty and staff should be aware of flu symptoms in order to conduct self-screenings and to refer students to the nurse's office for evaluation. We also want to reinforce good practices regarding hand-washing and proper coughing techniques to help prevent the spread of germs in school and home settings.
Flu symptoms include the following:
· Fever (100.4°F or greater)
· Cough
· Sore throat
· Runny or stuffy nose.
· Body aches
· Chills
· Headache
· Diarrhea
· Fatigue
· Vomiting
If you think you or your child has the flu:
· Please stay home. Do not send your child to school.
· Avoid close contact with others for 3-5 days.
· Students may return when they have been fever free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication AND symptoms have improved.
· Medical evaluation and doctor’s notes are encouraged to ensure absences are excused
Everyone should practice and encourage others to:
· Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Drop the used tissue in a wastebasket. If a tissue is not available, cough into the crook of your elbow or sleeve.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
