WCS ILLNESS GUIDELINES

It may be August, but cold and flu season is already here.  Nurses are noticing a variety of illnesses including but not limited to strep, various strains of the flu, the common cold, etc.  "There are some actions to remember when working or going to school and being in close contact with others," says Health Services Coordinator Jill Casada.  "Stay away when sick, wash our hands frequently and adequately, and cover our mouths and faces when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets to others."

The district has compiled additional reminders for parents:

• Keep sick children at home and always check for a fever before sending a student to school.
   

• Do not give your child any over-the-counter medication to bring a fever down in order to send your child to school.
   

• Do not send your child to school and ask the nurse to see if they are sick or not.
   

• Rely on your healthcare provider for specific guidelines on when to keep your child out of a public setting.
   

• If your child becomes sick at school, we will notify you and expect you to pick up your child from school as soon as possible.
   

• Under federal privacy law, school employees will not discuss a child's medical condition with any other parent.  However, the school will keep parents informed of general health conditions in the school that might affect children.

Remember a new strain of flu is in the illness mix this year, H1N1 flu. Symptoms for H1N1 include:  fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and diarrhea/vomiting (in some cases). It is expected that a vaccine against the new strain of flu will be available later this fall.

Visit the WCS WEBSITE and select the nurse icon for more information.