Cold and Flu Season

Cold & Flu Season Protocols  

During cold and flu season, your child may report to you symptoms such as sore throat, stuffy nose and headache. Information will be sent home regarding colds and flu for you to review at the start of the official cold and flu season, however here is an overview for easy reference.

A sick child should stay home during the first days of illness when symptoms are most severe and infection is most contagious. Children can return to school when symptoms are improving. Your child can return to school when NO FEVER has been detected for 24 hours. If your child has had gastrointestinal illness, he or she should stay home until vomiting and/or diarrhea have subsided for 24 hours.

Parents should watch for symptoms of the flu which can include: fever, sore throat, coughing, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. Some flues may also bring on vomiting or diarrhea. Please consult with your health care provide for guidance if your child has flu or flu-like symptoms.

Please take a few minutes to share some important reminders with your child. These reminders should include encouraging your child to direct coughs and sneezes into his or her elbow, to carry tissues in a pocket during a cold, and to wash hands with soap and water frequently. Remind your child to keep their hands away from eyes, nose and mouth in an attempt to stop the spread of germs. Also, students should not share drinks, forks, spoons or water bottles.

We hope you find this information helpful. If you have any questions, please call your school nurse. We hope that by being extra vigilant with these simple preventive measures, we will enjoy good health throughout the school year.