• Cold Versus Seasonal Flu

     The common cold and seasonal flu are both types of respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Due to the fact that both of these illnesses can have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on their symptoms alone. In general, the symptoms of a common cold are usually milder than those with the seasonal flu. Symptoms associated with the common cold are sneezing, runny nose and sore throat. Symptoms that are commonly seen with the seasonal flu are a fever of 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, headache, body aches, and fatigue.

     When dealing with the flu or even the common cold, the most important thing that parents and school staff can do to protect themselves and all the students is to educate the children about how to prevent the spread of any viral illness. 

     

    Six Good Health Habits to Help Prevent any Viral Illness:

    1. Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your

    distance from others to protect them from getting sick too!

    2. Stay home when you are sick. Stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You 

    will help prevent others from catching your illness.

    3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

    Cough into your elbow to prevent those around you from getting sick.

    4. Wash your hands. Frequently washing your hands will protect you and others from germs.

    5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something

    that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

    6.  Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, 

    drink plenty of water, and eat nutritious foods. Also, frequently disinfect touched surfaces such 

    as toys, doorknobs, remote controls and light switches, especially if someone is sick.

     ***If your children have a cold or flu-like symptoms (such as fever-over 100.0 Fahrenheit, cough, sore throat, runny nose and/or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue, possible stomach symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea) PLEASE KEEP THEM HOME! Do not give them Ibuprofen (Advil) or Tylenol and send them to school as they will still be contagious!!***

     

     There are several websites that are available to you for information and for daily viewing and updates: