Flu Information

Here we are again at the beginning of another flu season!  The flu season usually starts to appear in November and could last up until May.  It typically peaks in January to February.  Prevention is the key to protect yourself from viruses.

No need to panic, especially if you follow some few simple steps to help prevent the spread of the flu and H1N1 virus.

It all begins with the 3 C’s:
 (From the Illinois Department of Public Health website)

Clean:  Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.
Cover:  Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or sleeve, not you hand.
Contain:  Contain your germs.  Stay home if you are sick

By following these steps one can avoid the flu, or at least experience less severe symptoms.  Most of the time symptoms last only a few days.  Seasonal flu symptoms include: fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, etc…However, if your child is experiencing a fever greater than 100 degrees and a cough or sore throat, please notify the school.  The child should remain at home for 24 hours after the fever has broke- without the use of medication (e.g. Tylenol).

Another way to protect yourself is to get immunized. Young children, pregnant mothers, those with a weakened immune system, and the elderly should seriously look into getting this done. You can receive both the flu shot and the H1N1 shot at the same time- once the H1N1 vaccination is available.  Children under 10 years of age are required to get 2 doses of the vaccination, while those older than 10 need only 1 vaccination.  Studies have shown this vaccine to be safe; however, those who have an allergy to egg (products) should not get this vaccine.  Remember, the “seasonal” flu shot doesn’t protect you from the H1N1 virus.  These are 2 separate viruses.

Here at Sycamore Trails we have the safety of your child in mind. At this time, hand sanitizers are used on the students before they go into the cafeteria.  

By reminding your child to wash hands before and after they eat, as well as any time their hands are visibly dirty, we can be assured of a healthy school year!