Back to School
Vaccinations . . . Flu shot season is upon us
The Centers for Disease Control recommend that anyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine this season. Although most people receive the flu shot injection, a nasal version of the flu vaccine is available for most people ages 2 - 49. Both APD and DHMC offer flu vaccines for patients. It is advised that people make an appointment through your medical provider’s office to receive a flu vaccine. Many local pharmacies offer flu vaccine clinics as well. Unfortunately, our school district will not be hosting a flu clinic this year. Be sure to get vaccinated to help stay healthy during these colder, winter months.
Backpacks
Did you know that backpacks should not weigh more than 15% of your child’s body weight? More specifically, a child who weighs 48 pounds should have a backpack that does not weigh more than 7 pounds - the size of an average newborn baby! Children use backpacks to transport many things between school and home, so make sure that only essential items go in backpacks such as food, water, and books.
Head Lice
Unfortunately, a normal part of elementary school is head lice. Although lice can be bothersome to some children, The Centers for Disease Control do not advise that students be excluded from school. As long as your child can focus in school and the symptoms of the lice are not a distraction, children are welcome to attend school. Please reach out if you have questions or need more information on proper treatment for lice.
Take good care,
Holly Maher, RN
hmaher@sau88.net / 603-448-0618
