Flu Prevention

It is never a bad time to revisit how you and your family can stay protected from the spread of the flu virus.  Please teach your children how to stay healthy by promoting good hygiene techniques and share the following suggestions.

• Cover their nose and mouth with a tissue or by using the bend of the      
  arm when they cough or sneeze and have them throw the tissue away
  after they use it. 

• Wash their hands often with soap and water, especially after they
  cough or sneeze. If water is not near, use an alcohol-based hand
  cleaner. 

• Remind them to not to touch their eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs often
  spread this way.

 
• Keep your distance by at least 3 feet. If you are near someone who is
  showing signs of the flu, social distancing will reduce your chance of
  infection. 

• Stay home if you are ill. To help prevent the spread of the flu virus,
  staying home or keeping your children home when they are sick is the
  best way to protect them and others.

Know the symptoms! Flu symptoms include fever, headache, chills, body aches, tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, nausea and vomiting. If you or your child shows any of these symptoms, please stay home! Contact your physician about treatment options.

Antibiotics will not treat the flu, but other medications can lessen the severity of the flu if given soon enough. Always talk to your doctor before beginning any therapy.

For more information, contact your school nurse or the Northeast Texas Public Health District at 903-595-1350 or visit the following website: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/