School Health Office

WHAT IS THE FLU/INFLUENZA?
The flu is an illness caused by flu viruses. The flu may make people cough and have a sore throat and fever. They may also have a runny nose or stuffy nose, feel tired, body aches and just don’t feel well at all. The flu happens every year and is more common in the fall and winter. People from all ages can get the flu!

HOW DOES THE FLU SPREAD?
People who have the flu can spread the virus by coughing or sneezing. Droplets released when a sick person coughs and sneezes, or talks can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. People may also catch the flu by touching their mouth or nose after touching something with the virus on it, such as doorknobs, tables and an infected person’s dirty hand.

HOW CAN I PREVENT THE FLU?
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your arm when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash right after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, use hand sanitizer often.
DO NOT tough your eyes, nose or mouth because the germs are spread this waY.

WHAT CAN I DO TO PROTECT MYSELF?
Get vaccination, stay away from people who are sick. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer, DO NOT TOUCH YOUR FACE!

SIGNS OF THE FLU MIGHT INCLUDE:

FEVER
COUGH, SORE THROAT
RUNNY OR STUFFY NOSE
FEELING WEAK OR MORE TIRED THAN USUAL
HEADACHE
CHILLS/BODY ACHES
LESS COMMON ARE VOMITING/DIARRHEA