NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Influenza (“the flu”) is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Each year, many children get sick with seasonal influenza.  We have become aware of cold and flu symptoms in our schools and surrounding areas.   Many of the symptoms seen in the nurse’s offices include:  fever, runny nose, coughing, nausea, vomiting and sore throat.  As a preventive measure please practice good hygiene strategies (i.e., hand washing, bathing, and overall cleanliness) in reducing transmission of germs and harmful bacteria.

To be proactive and preventive, the following precautions are advised:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve, not your hand.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. 
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.    
We recommend students with cold or flu symptoms to remain home until symptoms subside. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. Please visit your primary care physician, your local pharmacy, Richmond City Health District or other medical resources for additional questions and/or concerns.   

Influenza fact sheets are linked below, which will help you become more informed about influenza (flu) and flu vaccinations.  Working together we can ensure that all of our children stay healthy.

Influenza -Fact Sheet

Influenza -Spanish Fact Sheet