The 20082009 Flu Season: Protecting our Children from Influenza

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The 2008-2009 Flu SeasonProtecting our Children
from Influenza

• School Name Name of PresenterPresentation Date

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What is the flu?

• Influenza, also called the flu, is caused by a
  virus that infects the respiratory tract.
• Its usually spread through the air, in droplets
  from coughs or sneezes from infected people.

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What are the symptoms?

• Fever, headache, tiredness, cough/sore throat,
  runny/stuffy nose, and/or muscle aches
• Some children can have nausea, vomiting, and/or
  diarrhea.
• Some people, especially young children and
  those with long term health issues, can get very
  sick or die.
• People can spread the flu before symptoms start
  and 5 or more days after getting sick.

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How can I protect my child from the flu?

• A flu vaccine is the best way to protect your
  child from the flu.
• Vaccinate yourself and other family members to
  prevent the spread of flu to your child.
• Take everyday steps to prevent the spread of
  germs.

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How does the vaccine work?

• The vaccine protects against 3 types of flu
  virus.
• This changes every year, based on scientists
  predictions.
• It takes about 2 weeks for the body to become
  protected.
• The vaccine is delivered as a shot or through a
  nasal spray.

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But are flu vaccines safe?

• YES! All vaccines are tested for years to be
  certain that they are safe.
• Most people have only mild side effects such as a
  low fever or soreness in the arm.
• These mean that the body is responding to the
  vaccine.
• Serious side effects are very rare.

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But are flu vaccines safe? (Continued)

• There is no evidence that autism and vaccines are
  linked.
• It is safe to get a flu vaccine at the same time
  as other shots.
• You cannot get the flu from a flu vaccination.

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Who should get vaccinated?

• The new recommendation Children ages 6 months
  18 years of age should get vaccinated every year.
• Parents should be vaccinated too!
• The best time to get vaccinated is October, but
  flu vaccinations are recommended through the
  spring.
• The nasal spray vaccine is an option for healthy
  kids 2 years of age and older.

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Where can we get vaccinated?

• Children through 18 may be eligible for free
  vaccinations through the Vaccines for Children
  Program.
• Most insurance plans cover flu vaccinations for
  children and many do for adults.
• To find free or low cost vaccines in your area
• Visit the Los Angeles County Immunization Program
  at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/ip
• Dial the Countys referral line at 211.

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The Role of Schools

• Schools keep communities healthy by
• Posting notices about hand washing in restrooms.
• Being vigilant about cleaning classroom
  materials.
• Providing flu prevention messages and encouraging
  flu vaccination.

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The Role of Parents

• Parents keep communities healthy by
• Vaccinating their children and themselves
  against vaccine-preventable diseases, including
  the flu.
• Ensuring that sick children stay home from
  school.
• Teaching and practicing healthy hygiene practices.

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Teach Children To

• Cover their nose and mouth when they cough or
  sneeze (tissue or elbow).
• Wash their hands often with soap and water,
  especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.

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For More Information

• Centers for Disease Control and
  Preventionwww.cdc.gov/flu
• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
  Immunization Programwww.publichealth.lacounty.gov
  /ip
• Flu kit for schools

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Credits

• This presentation was adapted from a template for
  schools developed by the Los Angeles County
  Department of Public Health Immunization Program.

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Questions
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