The flu is widespread across the U.S. and New Jersey, but here in Verona, we seem to be reasonably OK (knock wood). Superintendent Dr. Rui Dionisio said in a note to parents and guardians today that Verona Public School District has confirmed 18 cases of the flu.
Still, the district is asking everyone to take proper precautions if someone at home is showing signs of the flu–fever, general weakness, severe aches and pains, headache and dry cough. That means doing the following:
- Washing hands often with soap and water.
- While sick, limiting contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
- If you’ve got flu symptoms, staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or other necessities.
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Washing your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, which can spread germs.
- Frequently cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and soiled items, including toys.
And finally, the most important: “If your child has the flu,” says Dionisio, “please keep them home from school and schedule a visit with your family physician.”
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the nurse at your school or get information from the Centers for Disease Control’s Flu Information website.
If you have a child who’s not yet old enough to be in Verona’s public schools, remember that state health regulations require children ages six months through 59 months who attend any licensed child care center or preschool facility to have gotten at least one dose of flu vaccine by this past December 31. Children who don’t have proof of getting the vaccine and don’t have a valid medical or religious exemption will need to be excluded from the child care center or preschool facility through March 31.
