Now that fall is just around the corner and county schools are starting, you may be concerned about protecting your child and family from the flu. NLC strongly encourages all parents and students to receive a flu shot in the fall of 2022.

Here are some things you can do now:

Make plans NOW for home care for children that become ill with the flu. Talk to your employer about how you will manage if you or your child becomes ill. Check with your child's teachers and child care providers about home learning activities. Discuss with friends and family who would care for your child if you become ill. Update emergency contacts. Discuss special plans with your health care provider for your child or household members who have chronic medical conditions like asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, etc. because they are at higher risk of severe illness and complications from the flu.

Teach Your Children Healthy Habits:

Cough and sneeze into a sleeve or elbow, not hands. Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after toileting and before eating. Use a hand sanitizer if water is not available. Children need coaching (rub and scrub all surfaces for 20 seconds) on proper hand washing until about 8 years of age. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Tell you or their caregiver if they feel sick.

Keep Your Child Home if They Are Sick with the Flu:

Keep them home for at least 24 hours after they are fever free (without the use of fever reducing medications Do not send a sick child to a group child care program. Signs of flu are: fever with a cough or sore throat. Call your health care provider for advice on caring for an ill child or family member. Notify NLC as soon as possible if your child is being kept home because of flu so we can watch for signs of illness in the other children.

Annual seasonal flu vaccines are recommended for everyone, especially children ages 6 months to 18 years, people over age 50 or those with underlying medical conditions, and caregivers of children birth through 5 years.