Flu Information

As many of you are aware, the flu (influenza) is making national headlines as the number and severity of influenza cases continue to grow nationwide. Colorado was one of the early states to be identified as having wide-spread flu activity and we are currently watching the east coast trend of increased flu hospitalizations and deaths. We want all CCSD staff to be as prepared as possible for the possible surge of this serious illness.

What does influenza look like?  The flu (influenza) comes on quickly and is more intense than the common cold with symptoms such as fever, body aches, tiredness, and cough.

Flu defense: The first line of personal defense against the flu is receiving a flu shot or vaccine. Fortunately, this year’s flu vaccine is a good match for the actual emerging viruses so prevention is this year’s key word.  IT IS NOT TOO LATE to receive your flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months or older receive a flu shot on an annual basis. Vaccine supplies are variable so call Kaiser (303-344-7600) or your local pharmacy ahead to make sure flu shots are available.

See below for further interventions to keep you, your classroom and family healthy:

Wash hands/apply hand sanitizer before eating lunch or snacks, after using a tissue or coughing/sneezing into hands, and before touching your face.  Some students may be sensitive to the sanitizer so please allow those kids to wash at the sink if needed.

·         Encourage respiratory etiquette.  Cover cough or sneeze with your arm or tissue.  Wash hands after tissue use.

·         Encourage water intake.  In addition to dehydration of the body and its effect on brain function, dry mucous membranes are more easily attacked by bacteria and viruses.

      Every classroom has a bottle of hand sanitizer. 

·         If you are ill, stay home to prevent the spread of germs.