by Sonja Roback
nurse@isb.ac.th
Influenza is an acute disease of the respiratory tract caused by influenza viruses. There are different influenza viruses and they are changing constantly, causing mild to severe illness, hospital stays and death in all parts of the world. The World Health Organization recommends influenza vaccination as the most effective way to prevent infection. We want to give you information on the prevention and treatment of influenza.
Why is it important for the ISB Nurse Clinic to encourage flu vaccine for school age children?
Schools are places where viruses and other germs are easily exchanged. Children are efficient germ spreaders. Illness disrupts school attendance and learning. The National Association of School Nurses says, “Studies have shown high rates of vaccination among school children (50-70%) can dramatically reduce the overall burden of disease in the entire community (Reichert et al., 2001; Longini., Ackerman, & Elveback, 1978; Loeb et al.,
2010).”
To receive the vaccine, see your healthcare provider. Nearby, the influenza vaccine is available at the Bumrungrad International Nichada Clinic and World Medical Center. Both facilities recommend calling ahead for a vaccination appointment.
How can I tell the difference between influenza and a “cold”?
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that “in general, the flu is worse than the common cold and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose and congestion. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems like the flu, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.” If you suspect influenza, please see your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm
Signs and symptoms of influenza:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills (not all people with influenza will have a fever)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
The Nurse’s Clinic wants to help you to protect yourself and your family against seasonal flu. Here are some ways to stop the spread of germs and sickness:
Remember: The most important action that anyone can do is to get the flu vaccine.
- If your children are sick, keep them at home. Do not send them to school.
- Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.
- Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of the elbow. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.
- Teach your children to stay at least one meter away from people who are sick.
- People who are sick should stay home from work or school, and they should stay away from other people until they are better.
ISB is committed to your child’s overall development, both educationally and health related. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider or the ISB Nurse’s Office (nurse@isb.ac.th).