Flu Prevention Notice and Tips

Flu Prevention Notice

Dear Rowland Families:

Flu season is here. The influenza (Flu) virus spreads from person to person, mostly from coughs and sneezes of sick people. The virus can also spread by sharing objects (drinks, eating utensils) or close contact (shaking hands,kissing) with an infected person. Symptoms ofthe flu include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite.

During the school year, Rowland School Nurses work with the local health department to monitor the health of students/staff. Appropriate measures are being taken to ensure the health of our students/staff and this notice is being sent as a precautionary measure.

Here are some ways to protect your family from the flu:

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Get the flu shot--available free for students at RUSD Children’s Clinic on Mondays & Thursdays. (626) 964-4798.

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Keep children who feel ill or have a fever of100° F or greater at home and consult your family physician. Important: Your child’s temperature should be under 99° F without fever reducing medications for 24 hours prior to returning to school. Health is more important than perfect attendance. Pleasenotify the school of the reason for your child’s absence.

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If your child has risk factors for complications, consult your doctorimmediately if flu symptoms occur. Antiviral drugs may be prescribed by the physician.

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When your child is well enough to return to school, send a note with your child on the day he/she returns to school, stating thespecific reason for the absence.

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Teach your children to wash their hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.

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Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and to put used tissue in the waste basket or by coughing into the inside of the elbow.

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Encourage your children to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth and teach your children to stay at least three feet away from people who are sick.

The school staff is not allowed to give medication at school, even over-the-counter medications such as non-aspirin, cough syrup, etc., without written authorization from a physician. Please request the form from the school office if your child needs medication during school hours.

It is our goal to help you maintain your child’s health. You will be notified if any additional precautions are recommended. If you have any questions, contact your child’s school nurse, visit http://www.rowlandschools.org, or http://www.cdc.gov/flu.

Sincerely,

Cindy Rose Escamilla MS RN PHN CPNP, RUSD Health Services Specialist