Dear Berlin Central School District Families,

As everyone knows, it is flu season. The number of reported cases of the flu/influenza is rising quickly. This letter is to inform you that your child may have been exposed to the flu in the community or at school. The health office has sent home several students vomiting and or with fevers greater than100 degrees.

The flu is very contagious and can spread from person to person by breathing in the droplets in a cough, sneeze or runny nose that contain the flu virus. People with the flu may be able to infect others by shedding virus from one day before getting sick to 5-7 days after.

Signs and Symptoms of the flu may include:
The flu comes on quickly. Most people with the flu feel very tired and may have a high fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea.

If you suspect you or a family member is sick, contact your doctor ASAP for further evaluation.

Prevention
CDC recommends vaccination for everyone 6 months and older;
Hand washing with soap and water, especially before meals; alcohol based hand sanitizers will work;
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw tissue in trash and wash hands;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way;
Clean and disinfect hard surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs, including bathroom surfaces, kitchen counters and toys for children. Use household disinfectants according to directions.

When can my child return to school after having the flu?
PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME IF HE OR SHE HAS VOMITED WITHIN THE LAST 24 HRS RELATED TO ILLNESS. Keep your child home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone (without medication), and 24 hours after vomiting and/or diarrhea subsides.

Treatment
The flu can be treated with antiviral drugs. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen may be taken to reduce fever and increase comfort. Avoid products containing Aspirin. People with the flu need plenty of rest and fluids.

Your child’s medical information is kept confidential, so please call the Health Office if your child has been diagnosed with the flu/influenza by a medical professional. Contact the health office with any questions.

Sincerely,

The Health Office Team