H1N1 FLU INFORMATION
As you probably know by now, a new type of influenza (flu) is currently being seen in Kansas and throughout the United States. Fortunately, illness from this virus is usually mild and only lasts a few days; although in some cases severe disease and death can result. So far, most cases have occurred in children and young adults and some of those have needed hospitalization according to a letter written by the Kansas State Health Department.
The symptoms of this flu are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu. They include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting. People with other medical problems, and women who are pregnant, are at especially high risk of serious complications.
Schools can be easy places for flu viruses to spread. State and local public health officials are working closely with your school district now to take steps that will limit the spread of the pandemic virus. Parents must do their part to keep the virus out of Kansas schools, so that no schools are forced to close because of outbreaks of this infection.
According to the Kansas State Health Department here is what your school needs you , and all parents, to do:
1) Keep children who are sick at home. Ill children should stay at home until they are fever free for 24 hours or more.
2) Plan for possibility that you will be called to bring your child home from school if he or she gets sick while in school.
3) Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and insist that your children do the same. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow.
4) WASH YOUR HANDS often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and see that your children follow your example. Alcohol-based hand cleaners will also work.
5) Remind children to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6) Get plenty of sleep, get exercise, drink plenty of fluids, and eating healthy foods.
7) Get your child vaccinated for seasonal flu soon. See that your child receives the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available in the fall.
8) Stay informed. Watch for information from your child’s school. Other resources can be found at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s special H1N1 flu web page:
