Flu Season –Message from the School Nurse

This is the Flu Season and our school is seeing an increase in the number of sick children.

There are some measures you as the parent or guardian can take to minimize or avoid the risk of becoming ill.

Handwashing is essential to help prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.

Stay home when you are ill.

This includes keeping children home from school when they are ill. Children with a temperature over 100 should not be sent to school. Keeping in mind that body temperature is lower in the morning. A temperature of 99 may be a warning sign that an illness is lurking, and often times the temperature is significantly elevated a few hours later. Children should not return to school after having a fever over 100 until they are fever-free for 24 hours.

Vomiting and Diarrhea:

Your child should not be sent to school if there has been vomiting or diarrhea in the night before. Dehydration is always a concern for children with diarrhea and vomiting. Your family doctor should be contacted promptly if vomiting and/or diarrhea is persistant.

If you ever have questions or need assistance with a physician referral or medical financial assistance, please contact your school’s nurse at 931-4830 Wednesday through Friday.

I have linked some information pages from the Health Department and the CDC. Please read them for additional information.

Kandice Llera RN, BSN

 

Stop the Spread of Germs