It’s Not too Late to Help Your Schools Prevent the Flu

February 21, 2008 - Winter is almost over, but influenza outbreaks still linger. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu season begins as early as October and can last until May. Flu activity is currently elevated across the nation. During the week of February 3 – 9, 2008 alone, 44 states reported widespread influenza activity.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus.  The CDC states that, every year in the United States, on average 5% to 20% of the population get the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications; and approximately 36,000 people die from it. Flu viruses spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza; however, sometimes people may become infected by touching surfaces contaminated with flu viruses and then touching their mouth or nose.

Ways for Schools to Prevent the Flu – Check Out the CDC’s Seasonal Flu Website

The CDC’s Seasonal Flu website says people should “Take 3” against the flu this season, that is:

• Take time to get a vaccine;
• Take everyday actions to stop germs like frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes; and
• Take antiviral drugs if your doctor says you need them.

According to the CDC, October or November are the best months to get vaccinated, but getting vaccinated later is still better than not getting the vaccine at all.

Schools, many times, house thousands of students and staff at a time – an environment that promotes the spread of the flu.  When there are flu outbreaks in schools and/or communities, many school days are lost and the academic and financial consequences can be significant.

Therefore, it is important for schools to reinforce CDC’s “Take 3”, and to communicate to students and staff the importance of avoiding close contact with people who are sick; staying at home when sick; avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth; and practicing other good health habits such as getting enough sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating nutritious foods.

In addition to information on preventing the flu, CDC’s Seasonal Flu website also provides information on flu basics; what to do if you get sick; as well as information for health professionals and specific groups; and the latest influenza data and news.  To view the website, please visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.

For additional influenza resources, including pandemic flu preparedness for schools, please visit NSBA’s School Health Programs “School Health Related Links” webpage and click on “Pandemic Flu.”

Source: CDC’s Seasonal Flu Website.