As we move into the winter months, there are strategies to keep our school community safe and healthy. Remember to follow these simple precautions to prevent illness:
- Stay home if feeling sick
- Avoid contact with individuals who are sick
- Avoid sharing cups and utensils
- Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
This is the time of year where we typically see an increase in the number of illnesses in our schools. Based on information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, influenza (flu) activity is increasing nationally, and troubling early data showing drops in flu vaccine uptake this season, the CDC has issued an urgent reminder about the importance of vaccinating for flu. Hospitalization rates in kids for respiratory illnesses are among the highest seen at this time in about a decade so far this season.
Getting a flu shot is the most important action a person can take to prevent flu and its potentially serious complications. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as possible to protect against the flu.
The flu vaccine:
- Reduces the risk of flu illness
- Can be given at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine, for people who are due for both
- Protects against four different flu viruses - even if an individual has already gotten the flu, other flu viruses are circulating and it’s possible to get flu more than once a season
Staying updated with the COVID-19 boosters will protect against the coronavirus and prevent serious illness. The COVID-19 vaccine and boosters are safe and effective. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourages vaccinating for the flu and COVID-19.
Additionally, health care providers have observed an increase in the number of cases of RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) in children in recent months. Infants and children may be particularly susceptible to seasonal respiratory viral infections during the 2022-2023 fall and winter because they have had limited previous exposure to these respiratory viruses. There has also been many cases of suspected norovirus illness. Please follow the preventative measures listed above to ensure the health and wellness of our school community!
