• MRSA
     
    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Staphlococcus aureus, commonly known as "Staph" are bacteria frequently carried on the skin or in the nose of 25 to 35 percent of healthy people.  The presence of this bacteria is normal and does not present a health concern, in most individuals.  Staph enters the body through an open wound and cause an infection.  In most cases, these infections are minor and can be treated with antibiotics.  With MRSA the staph bacteria is resistant to the antibiotics and are more difficult to treat.   
    If an individual presents with the following signs/symptoms from a wound on the skin you should seek medical attention:
    • Redness
    • swelling
    • warmth
    • pain/tenderness
    • Complaint of "spider bite"
    • Drainage
    • Yellow or white center and has a "head"
    There are many things that we can do to prevent the spread of MRSA in our schools and our communities. As basic as it may sound, stressing the importance of good hygiene is vital in preventing the spread of MRSA in our schools and locker rooms. “These infectious agents are resistant to some of our strongest drugs, but they do not resist hand washing.”
     
     
    10
     
    FLU INFORMATION
     

    With flu season upon us, it is important that we work together to keep our children healthy.  Viruses spread easily among children in schools, and families with school-age children have more infections than others, with an average of one-third of these family members infected each year.  By keeping our children flu-free, we benefit the community as a whole.  You can help prevent the spread of flu or help your child get better if he/she does get sick by following a few simple steps: 

     

    ·         If possible, you and your child should get a flu vaccine

    ·        Remind your child to cover his/her nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing and dispose of the tissue immediately

    ·         Have your child wash his/her hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds

    ·         Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and shared items at least once a day

    ·         Ensure that bathrooms are stocked with soap, hand towels and tissues

    ·         Teach your child not to touch his/her mouth, nose and eyes

    ·         If your child is sick and has a fever, keep him/her at home to prevent the spread of illness to others

     

    If you are concerned about your child’s flu symptoms, call your doctor early.  Call your doctor immediately if your child has a chronic disease.  Common symptoms of flu include high fever, severe headache, muscle and body aches, exhaustion, and dry cough.  Additionally, children often exhibit other flu symptoms that are rare in adults, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  Some children might benefit from an antiviral medication, which can be prescribed by a physician and can help lessen the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.  To be effective, antiviral medication must be taken within 48 hours after flu symptoms begin.

     

    If you have any questions or would like additional information about preventing and treating the flu, please contact the school nurse.
     

    IS IT COLD OR FLU? – KNOW HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE

     

    ·   If you have a stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and a hacking cough, you probably have a COLD.

     

    ·   If you have a high fever, severe headache, muscle and body aches, extreme tiredness
    and a dry cough, you probably have the FLU.