GIA Flu Update
Keeping a sick child at home will minimize the spread of infection and viruses in the classroom.
Dear parents/guardians,
There are multiple news reports regarding the increase in flu this year. We are starting to see some cases here at the GIA. Influenza activity is widespread across the United States right now, including Georgia.
Typical symptoms include fever/chills (100.4 or greater), loss of appetite, muscle aches, headache, lack of energy, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and possibly a runny nose. Fever is not always present. Children can have stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Symptoms typically begin suddenly and are more uncomfortable than the typical cold.
Flu Prevention:
· Get the Flu Vaccine - It's not too late!
· Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
· Avoid close contact with those that are sick.
· Teach scholars to cough/sneeze into their elbow and throw tissues away in the trash.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
· Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated.
· The incubation period is around 2 days from exposure to onset of symptoms. If you do have a positive flu diagnosis in your home, make those that have been around you aware so they can watch for any signs/ symptoms.
Consider keeping your scholar at home if he/she has any of the following symptoms:
· Very stuffy or runny nose and/or persistent cough
· Persistent headache
· Body aches
· Stomach pain and/or nausea
· Sore throat
· Chills
Definitely keep your scholar at home and consider calling their pediatrician for the following:
· Fever (Greater than 100.0 degrees. Scholar may return after being fever-free, without fever medication, for 24 hours)
· Vomiting or diarrhea
· General weakness or fatigue, muscle aches
· Frequent congested or croupy cough
Thank you so much in advance for your help in keeping our school healthy!
The GIA Administration Team