Dear Parents and Guardians,
As the 2023–24 cold and influenza (flu) season is upon us, we would like to ask for vigilance in regard to cold and flu symptoms.
Illnesses like colds and flu are spread from person to person via respiratory droplets. These droplets are spread by coughing, sneezing or by touching objects or people with contaminated hands. We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces such hands, desks and doorknobs.
Please help us in reminding your children of the following health habits:
- Cover their mouth and nose when sneezing. If they can, they should use a tissue and then throw it away, washing their hands afterwards.
- Keep their hands away from their eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean their hands often. Remind them to wash with soap and warm water.
- Remind them to not share cups, water bottles or eating utensils.
- Students should stay home when they are sick. They should stay home from school if they have a fever or any other symptoms.
Students who have had a recent fever should not return to school until they have been fever and symptom free for 24 hours (without the help from fever-reducing medications such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen). This means that if students are sent home from school with an elevated temperature from the medical room, they are asked to stay at home to allow time to ensure that their elevated temperature does not return. They should also stay home (with or without fever) if they have symptoms which are obvious of illness, for example, excessive cough, malaise or tiredness, congestion, or runny nose. If your children have any of these symptoms, we ask that you please keep them home. By staying home when they are sick, children are helping themselves recuperate and are helping their peers stay healthy.
If you are unsure whether your child is well enough to attend school, or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your support.
Kindly,
The Medical Team
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]