Cold and flu season is upon us. Health officials are warning there may be high levels of influenza compared to the past two years when COVID-19 precautions helped keep flu infections low. As a reminder, please do not send your child to school if they are feeling sick or experiencing symptoms of a virus. Keeping your sick child home will be a great benefit for the health and wellness of our students and staff. As you know, we here at Grace have a two-day rule that is helping us keep illnesses down and it is working very well. Your commitment to following this rule stops the spread and keeps more children in school.
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of serious flu complications. Symptoms of influenza can vary, but generally include a high fever, headache, chills, body aches, sore throat, and cough.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers these tips to prevent influenza:
● Get vaccinated every year
● Avoid close contact with sick people
● Frequently wash hands with soap
● Stay at home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms
● Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
● Individuals with chronic health issues and/or individuals experiencing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional.
The influenza vaccine is available at doctors’ offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance. People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the County’s six public health centers or a local community clinic. To find the nearest location, visit the County’s Flu Vaccine Locations page or call 2-1-1 San Diego. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated every year.
Grace Christian will continue to work with local health officials to share helpful information.
