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INFORMATION ON THE FLU: A Flu Guide for Parents

 
Influenza (Flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. This is different from a cold, and usually comes on suddenly. It is spread by droplets (cough, sneeze, etc.).  See the link above for more information.
 
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR CHILD IF THEY EXPERIENCE SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU:
 
CONSIDER keeping your child at home for an extra day of rest and observation if he or she has any of the following symptoms:
  • Very stuffy or runny nose and/or cough
  • Mild sore throat (no fever, no known exposure to strep)
  • Headache
  • Mild stomach ache
DEFINITELY keep your child at home for treatment and observation if he or she has any of these symptoms:
  • Fever (greater than 100 degrees by mouth and your child may return to school only after his or her temperature has been consistently below 100 degrees, by mouth, for a minimum of 24 hours)
  • Vomiting (even once)
  • Diarrhea
  • Chills
  • General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness or muscle aches
  • Frequent congested (wet) or croupy cough
  • Lots of nasal congestion with frequent blowing of nose

 

IS IT A COLD OR THE FLU? Cold Versus Flu 

 

PREVENTION: Help Fight Germs Like Flu

  • Avoid close contact with sick people
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
  • Wash hands often with soap and water
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated
  • Keep sick kids at home for at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever of 100 degrees or higher.  Keeping students, with a fever, at home will reduce the number of others who may get infected