Notes from the Nurse: January

Newsletter Information:

Flu
Importance of Exercise
Mental Health

Note from the Vermont Department of Health:

There are a number of children experiencing flu-like symptoms and this letter is meant to notify you and provide guidance on how to help your child and others stay healthy.

The flu is a highly contagious respiratory disease that usually affects people during the winter and spring months. It is spread person-to-person by coughing and sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces. It can be spread before a person even shows symptoms. Symptoms of the flu include: fever, headache, chills, body/muscle aches, dry cough, and sore throat. A person may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but those symptoms alone without any respiratory symptoms are often caused by another disease.

The flu can be treated with antivirals which are prescribed by a doctor.

Here are some ways to keep your family and others healthy this flu season:

If your child is sick, keep them home from school
Practice good hand hygiene
Always cover your cough
Get a flu shot each year

For more information on the flu, contact the Vermont Department of Health at 802-863-7240, option 2.

Most of us set some sort of goal for the new year, and for many people that involves exercising more. Exercising frequently is a great thing for everyone to be doing, including your children! This is a great time of year to help your child find ways to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Exercise is also great for your mental health!

Mental Health:

Mental health is as crucial as physical health, and it impacts every aspect of a student's life. It is more than the absence of illness; it's about thriving emotionally, socially, and academically.

Recognize signs and symptoms: This includes changes in behavior, mood swings, withdrawal from friends and activities, and difficulty concentrating. If you notice any concerning signs, please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's pediatrician, your school nurse, or counselor.

Strong social support is a powerful buffer against mental health challenges. We encourage students to build and nurture positive relationships. Our classrooms create a safe space for students to express their thoughts and feelings to provide them with a sense of belonging and support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please reach out to your doctor, a mental health professional, or other trusted adult.

Illness

When can students return to school after illness?

When symptoms of illness have improved
Symptoms of fever (100.4 or greater), vomiting, or diarrhea, should be resolved for at least 24 hours without medication before returning to school
If an antibiotic is warranted (such as for strep throat) the individual may return 24 hours after starting the antibiotic and symptoms have improved

Reach out to Mrs. Page if you have any questions.