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A guide for parents about the Flu

According to the CDC (The Center for Disease Control and Prevention) the influenza (also known as flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. The flu is different from a cold, and usually comes on suddenly. While the flu illness can vary from mild to severe, children often need medical care because of flu. 

Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly by droplets made when someone with flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. A person also can get flu by touching something that has flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose.

Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, feeling tired and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults). Some people with the flu will not have a fever.

There are some ways you can protect yourself, your child, and your family against the flu. In addition to getting a flu vaccine, you and your child should take everyday actions to help prevent the spread of germs. Stay away from people who are sick as much as possible to keep from getting sick yourself. If you or your child are sick, avoid others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. Also, remember to regularly cover your coughs and sneezes, wash your hands often, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and clean surfaces that may be contaminated with flu viruses. These everyday actions can help reduce your chances of getting sick and prevent the spread of germs to others if you are sick. However, a yearly flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu illness.

A sick person with the flu may be able to infect others from 1 day before getting sick to up to 5 to 7 days after. Severely ill people or young children may be able to spread the flu longer, especially if they still have symptoms.

Your child cannot come to school if he or she is sick. Your child should stay home to rest and to avoid spreading flu to other children or caregivers. Keep your child home from school for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone. (The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) A fever is defined as 100°F (37.8°C) * or higher.

If your child is sick, talk to your doctor early if you are worried about your child’s illness. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and drinks enough fluids.