New York State is concerned about the 2009-10 spread of influenza, and H1N1 flu, among children in early childhood programs. This year will be a challenge for all centers. Early childhood settings present unique challenges for infection control due to the highly vulnerable population, close interpersonal contact, shared toys and other objects and the inability of young children to practice good respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene.
In order to try to cut down on the spread of the flu, the Children’s Learning Centers of Suffolk County Community College would like to provide you with some information and recommendations for the flu season. We would like you to be especially aware of flu-like symptoms (see below under recommendations) and to keep your child at home should s/he exhibit those symptoms.
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) “children less than 5 years of age are at increased risk of complications from influenza (flu): the risk is greater among children less than 2 years old. Importantly, infants less than 6 months of age represent a particularly vulnerable group because they are too young to receive the seasonal or 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine.”
Recommendations:
Make sure your contact information and class schedules are updated.
Please make sure to wash your child’s hands upon entering the center.
It is suggested that you have you and your child vaccinated against the H1N1-swine flu. The vaccination should be available in mid-October, and you should speak with your doctor and pediatrician regarding this matter.
Keep your child home when you suspect that your child is sick. Flu-like symptoms include: fever (100⁰ F. or over), feverish, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose. Additional symptoms that may be experienced with H1N1-swine flu include muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.
Nursing students and employees of medical facilities are asked not to wear their uniforms and shoes into the center when picking up their child after work or internships.
Teach your children to wash their hands often. Washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is ideal (that’s about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).
Teach your children to keep their hands away from their face and avoid touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.
Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of their elbow. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve—not your hands!
Help your children to learn these healthy habits by setting a good example and always doing them yourself.
It is important to plan ahead. Have a family discussion now to consider options in advance of the event of your child getting sick. You will not be able to bring your child to the center, even for a short amount of time!
If we all practice good hygiene, health officials believe we can limit the spread of influenza and H1N1-swine flu in our school at this time.
Please stay informed by paying attention to media reports. You may also get information at:
