Flu Facts

• Flu season typically runs October to May, with most cases diagnosed December through March.
• Influenza can be spread from coughing, sneezing, or by touching an object that has been coughed or sneezed on.
• Symptoms usually appear 1 to 3 days after exposure.
• Flu symptoms can include a sudden onset of headache, fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• The usual treatment for the flu includes rest, liquids, and over-the-counter medicine. Aspirin should not be given to children due to the possibility of causing a complication called Reye Syndrome. If your child’s fever does not respond to Tylenol or Advil, please call your doctor.

The MOST EFFECTIVE WAY to prevent flu and the spread of germs is washing your hands frequently!
Encourage your child and family to wash their hands with soap and water after coughing and sneezing, before and after eating, or using the bathroom. Be sure to dry hands completely each time.

Please remember to do the following:

• If you are unable to wash your hands, use hand gel until you are able to use soap and water.
• Refrain from touching you mouth, nose, and eyes.
• Cover your cough and sneeze, preferably in the bend of your elbow instead of your hand.
• Please be sure to disinfect all surfaces frequently.
• IF your child is diagnosed with the flu, or you suspect he or she has the flu, please keep them home and contact your pediatrician.
• Keep your child home until he or she is symptom free for 24 hours, or until cleared by a physician. It may take several days after being fever free for your child to feel strong enough to return to school after contracting the flu.