We are entering the time of year when we see influenza (flu) and other respiratory viruses at school. This information is to help you determine when to keep your child at home.

★Signs of the Flu (unlike a cold, Flu symptoms usually start abruptly)

○Fever or feeling feverish/chills. Signs of a fever include chills, feeling very warm, flushed appearance or sweating. It is important to note that not everyone with the flu will have a fever.

○Cough

○Sore throat

○Runny or stuffy nose

○Muscle or body aches

○Headaches

○Fatigue (tiredness)

○Some children may have vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in children than adults)

If you suspect your child has the flu see your healthcare provider immediately! If your child awakes with vague complaints please consider monitoring your child at home for one to two hours before deciding whether or not to bring to school. Keeping a sick child at home will help minimize the spread of the flu in our schools!

★Tips to help prevent the flu

○Get the Flu vaccine (It is not too late)!!!

○Keep your child home when they are sick!!!!! Your child should stay home at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever or signs of a fever (chills, feeling very warm, flushed appearance, or sweating) without the use of fever-reducing medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen.

○Wash hands frequently with soap and water or us an alcohol-based hand sanitizer

○Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing

○Avoid close contact with people who are sick

School-aged children are at high risk of flu complications. Please monitor you child closely if they have the flu or you suspect they have the flu.

★EMERGENCY WARNING SIGNS OF FLU SICKNESS:

○Fast breathing or trouble breathing

○Bluish skin color

○Not drinking enough fluids

○Not waking up or not interacting

○Severe irritability

○Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worsening of cough

○Fever with a rash

Thank you in advance for helping contain the spread of the flu in our schools. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your healthcare provider or your school nurse.

Centennial Elementary School

SIGNS & TIPS FOR IDENTIFYING FLU

4th Grade Virtual Field Trip