Dear BCD Families,
Influenza-like illness is now widespread in the Berkshires. The absentee
rates at local schools for flu-like illness are quickly rising with some
diagnosed cases of H1N1 flu (also known as Swine flu or novel influenza A). BCD is grateful that our parents have been vigilant in keeping sick children at home even when flu is not suspected. We have had very few flu cases thus far but exposure being unavoidable, we too will be affected.
Extensive news coverage has been helpful to alert families, but has also
caused a worried response that has overwhelmed our local hospitals and
physicians. Please be aware that the vaccines for H1N1 and seasonal
influenza will not be administered through our school. I must refer you to your primary care physician for your family’s vaccination needs and vaccine availability. If you suspect flu, call your physician’s office for guidance particularly if you or your child has a health condition such as asthma, diabetes, auto immune disease or a bronchial condition. Be assured that most individuals with flu-like illness will improve with adequate rest at home, good hydration, and fever control. The majority of people with flu-like illness improve without antiviral medications such as Tamiflu or Relenza but calling your physician at the first sign of flu-like illness will determine whether these medications would be right for you or your child.
A few helpful points:
– Prevent spread by careful respiratory hygiene which includes hand washing with soap for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. Cough into the elbow area and use tissues followed by hand cleaning. Do not share drinks or food using the same cups or utensils.
-The incubation period for H1N1 flu is most likely 1-4 days.
-Have a thermometer (children can learn to take their own temperatures), tissues, sport drinks such as Gatorade. Foods such as broth based soups, rice, oatmeal, applesauce, rice crackers are best. Avoid wheat, dairy, spices, fried food and any fast food even as the appetite returns.
-Stay home as soon as signs of sickness appear. This will give you time to
assess whether or not it is a flu and it will also give your child the rest
needed to fight off illness even if it is simply a mild cold or brief
stomach virus. Your child may avoid flu if his resistance is supported
rather than worn down.
-Keep in mind that you need not have all of the symptoms for it to be flu.
Thus far the sudden onset of a combination of these symptoms most likely indicates flu: fever above 100, chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of
breath, runny nose, body aches, sore throat, headache, fatigue, weakness, vomiting or diarrhea. Fever presents in most cases but not all.
-Watch carefully for signs of dehydration to help prevent serious
complications. Some of the signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
decrease in urination, increased concentration of urine, dry mucous
membranes, diminished tears when crying, dry cracked lips, increased fever, and increase in lethargy. For any concern regarding dehydration consult your primary care MD immediately.
I have been in communication with the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) on a weekly and often daily basis via e-mail since the spring. For your convenience I am offering two documents from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health pertaining to influenza that may be helpful. “Flu – What You Can Do- Caring for People at Home” and “Frequently asked Questions”. To access these, please click the links below:
I will keep you informed this flu season with new developments. PLEASE call or send a note briefly explaining any absence so we can better track illness within our BCD community. As always, I am available by email or phone to help address any concerns.
Michelle T. Alexander, BS, RN
