As we all know, it is flu season.  This number of reported cases is rising quickly. The flu, or influenza, is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu virus is very contagious and can be spread from person to person by breathing in droplets from a cough, sneeze or runny nose that contain the flu virus. Influenza vaccinations are recommended by the CDC for children 6 months and older – it is not too late to get your vaccine.  Vaccines take up to 2 weeks to build full immunity of the influenza virus.

Signs and Symptoms of the flu may include:
Sudden onset of any of the following –
•    Tiredness
•    High fever
•    Cough
•    Sore throat
•    Runny/stuffy nose
•    Body aches
•    Headache
•    Chills
•    Fatigue
•    Vomiting and/or diarrhea

How to decrease the spread of the flu:
•    Practice good handwashing with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
•    If your child is feeling sick, please keep them at home until they are feeling better.
•    Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

When can my child return to school after having the flu?
•    Your child must be 24 hours FEVER FREE (without the use of Tylenol or Ibuprofen) and FREE of VOMITING AND DIARRHEA before returning to school.