Time To Get Flu Shots!

Selected Facts about Flu 

Summarized by APS/AB School Nurses from the Massachusetts DPH website 2007

What is the Flu?   The flu is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the lungs, nose and throat.  The virus is easily passed from one person to another by coughing and sneezing. For most people, the flu makes them feel very sick, but they generally get better in about a week. In New England, flu season usually begins in December and lasts until April.

Symptoms of the Flu include sudden onset high fever (102-104◦F; 39-40◦C) lasting 3-5 days, headache, muscle and body aches, exhaustion which can last 2 weeks or more, and dry cough.  Some people may be unsure if they have a cold or the flu. Colds are usually milder and do not come on suddenly. Cold symptoms include stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough.  Notify your school if your child is/are diagnosed with the flu.

Treatment of Flu symptoms:  Rest in bed.  Drink a lot of fluids.  Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Stay home for at least 3-5 days after you get sick so you don’t pass the flu to others.  Call your doctor for any of the following reasons: fever that does not get better after 3-5 days; difficulty breathing; chest pain; cough lasting > 7-10 days and/or accompanied by mucus that is green, rust-colored or bloody; you are not able to drink enough fluids.

*Reducing risk:  Get a flu shot every year. Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  Cover your mouth with a tissue or your arm when you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Avoid close contact with others who are sick.

For more information about the Flu, Please go to www.mass.gov/dph/flu

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Resilience is a key skill for children to learn.

Heather Makris,  BSN RN NCSN

Luther Conant Elementary School Nurse

https://abschools.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=6252188

(978)266-2550

(978)264-3329 fax