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Photo by juanmonino/sxc
Now that school is back in session the swine flu is becoming more popular in our Mississippi schools. There have been dozens of cases reported in several Mississippi school districts already. Some of the cases were reported in Warren, Lauderdale, Neshoba, Clarke and Copiah counties.
Local school officials have their guards up in order to try to prevent the swine flu and its spreading throughout the state. Teachers and other school officials are watching the children closely for signs of the swine flu. Children are being reminded to use proper cough and sneezing etiquette by using Kleenex or coughing or sneezing into the crook of their arms or their sleeves. School custodians are increasing their focus and frequency of cleaning commonly touched items such as hand rails, door knobs, light switches, and water fountains.
The following are symptoms of the swine flu, which are the same as the typical flu virus:
-Fever over 100 degrees
-Cough
-Sore Throat
-Runny or Stuffy Nose
-Body Aches
-Headaches
-Chills
-Fatigue
-Diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported
The following are ways you can help prevent swine flu and its spreading throughout our communities and schools:
-If your child has a fever, check their fever regularly and keep them home for at least 24 hours after there is no sign of fever.
-Be sure your child is aware of the proper cough and sneeze etiquette mentioned above.
-Remind children not to share their personal items, especially food and drinks.
-Teach children to wash their hands often and for at least 20 seconds to ensure germ removal. A lot of parents teach their children to sing "Happy Birthday" or the "ABC's" while washing their hands.
-Also enforce the use of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Keep a bottle in your bathroom, kitchen, children's backpacks, your vehicle, purses, etc.
Click here for more information from the Mississippi State Department of Health regarding swine flu in our area.
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