Update from the Health Office: Fall Sickness
Hello Families,
Fall is upon us and we are beginning to see an uptick in expected illness that comes along with it. In order to maintain the health and safety of the community we want to offer the following information. To prevent the widespread of colds and flu you can follow these guidelines on when to stay home virus when to come to school. Colds are most contagious during the first 48 hours. A child who has a fever must remain at home until "fever free" for a minimum of 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. Often, when a child awakens with vague complaints (the way colds and flu begin) it is wise to observe your child at home for an hour or two before deciding whether or not to bring them to school. Your child should be physically able to participate in all school activities on return to school. Keeping a sick child at home will minimize the spread of infections and viruses in the classroom.
Thank you!
Nurse Julia
Consider keeping your child at home for extra 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
Stomach ache
Definitely keep your child at home for treatment and observation if he or she has any of these symptoms:
Fever (greater than 100.4 degrees and your child may return to school only after his or her temperature has been consistently below 100.4 degrees, for a minimum of 24 hours)
Vomiting (even once, must be vomit free for 24 hours before returning)
Diarrhea
Chills
General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness or muscle aches
Frequent congested (wet) or croupy cough
To help prevent the flu and other colds, practice good hygiene habits with your children:
Wash hands frequently
Do not touch eyes, nose or mouth
Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, use a tissue, throw it away and then wash hands
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.