Did you know that the flu is highly contagious and can be spread for up to a day before symptoms appear and for five days afterwards?
The flu season in Australia usually starts in June or July, with a peak in August or September, and because it’s different every year, it is important to get the flu vaccine every year.
The World Health Organisation estimates up to five million people worldwide get a serious illness from the flu each year; tens of millions get milder illnesses.
With winter now upon us, children are more susceptible to bugs and viruses such as the flu, and it can be difficult for parents to know when to send their children to childcare and when to keep them at home.
At Goodstart, there are many procedures in place to prevent illness and accidents, and the priority is always to keep all children safe. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has provided a handy fact sheet to help parents decide if their children are well enough to attend a centre and help look out for the safety and wellness of everyone at centres.
The guide lists symptoms such as coughs and itchy eyes and uses a colour coded system of advice indicating if children are safe to attend a centre or if they should stay at home.
If in doubt, it’s best for parents to ask themselves:
- Is my child well enough to take part in the day’s activities?
- Will my child pass on their illness?
- If I felt like this, would I go to work?
If you are unsure about your child’s health, seek professional advice.
Some tips to help prevent the spread of infection this winter include:
- Teach your child about the importance of regular hand washing and ensure they do it at set times, such as after going to the toilet, before meals and snacks and after getting home from a day out.
- Teach your child to avoid touching their eyes or nose and to sneeze or cough into the crook of their arm.
- Ensure they get plenty of sleep, fresh fruit and vegetables and fresh air.
Download the www.findapharmacy.com.au 'Is your child too sick for daycare?' checklist.