H1N1 Flu: Facts for families of school-age children
What is “H1N1 Flu”? A type of influenza virus that can spread from people who are infected to others through coughs and sneezes.
What are the symptoms of H1N1 Flu? Common symptoms include fever and cough or sore throat. Other symptoms can include runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and in some persons, diarrhea and vomiting.
What should I do if someone in my family has flu-like symptoms? Anyone with flu symptoms of fever and cough or sore throat should stay at home until after being fever free for 24 hours. Make the decision to see a health care provider as you would during a typical flu season. Do not seek medical care if you are not ill or have mild symptoms for which you would not ordinarily seek medical care. If you feel sick enough to see a doctor, call your health care provider.
Why did some schools close? At the onset of this outbreak of a previously unknown influenza virus, affected schools were closed as a precaution while we learned more about the characteristics and severity of this new illness and the best strategy to prevent illness. The closures were intended to decrease spread of infection in the schools and have provided valuable time for us to gather information about this new influenza strain in our community.
Will schools continue to close? Schools will no longer be routinely ordered closed by Public Health on the basis of a diagnosis of a case of influenza A H1N1 virus (“swine flu”). As with seasonal influenza, schools may be closed if large numbers of students or faculty become ill. School closure appears less necessary given what we are observing about the spread of disease and the severity of illness currently associated with this virus.
How do I protect my children from infection? Teach children to:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not nearby, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or the crook of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs often spread this way.
- Stay away from people who are sick.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Metro Public Health Department’s website (www.health.nashville.gov) for information and updates about H1N1 Flu or call the Health Department at (615) 340-7775.