In an effort to help prevent the spread of flu, Mr. Benham, Superintendent, urges parents today to keep sick children at home and do not send them to school. Children who are sick with flu-like symptoms can be 'super spreaders' of influenza viruses and contribute to many more children and adults becoming ill. Staying home when sick stops the spread of flu and helps the sick child get well. In particular, children should stay home if they have a fever and cough or sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, vomiting or diarrhea. Parents should not send their child back to school until the child's fever is gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. Parents should teach their children to prevent the spread of flu viruses by:

• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

• Covering coughs and sneezes with the crook of the elbow or tissue.

• Washing hands often with soap and water, or hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth, which can spread germs. 

Parents should also make sure their child gets a flu shot when it is available. For more information about flu, contact the Adair County Health Department at 696-7292 or visit these websites: http://h1n1.health.ok.gov or http://www.flu.gov