Cold and Flu Information

Cold and Flu Information

Cold and Flu season is upon us. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHHS) reports that influenza (also known as the flu),” activity levels have increased over the past several weeks. As a reminder, please do not send your child to school if they are feeling sick. Keeping your sick child home will be a great benefit for the health and wellness of our students and staff. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of serious flu complications. Symptoms of influenza can vary, but generally include a high fever, headache, chills, body aches, sore throat, and cough.

If your child has not been vaccinated for the flu this year, we strongly encourage you to call your primary doctor and get an appointment as soon as possible. If your child does not have insurance you can call the Lewis County Health Department and see if he/she qualifies for a flu shot through their agency.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent influenza is as follows:

Tips to Prevent The Flu:

  • Get vaccinated every year

  • Avoid close contact with sick people

  • Frequent hand washing with soap

  • Stay at home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

  • Individuals with chronic health issues and/or individuals experiencing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional

  • See more prevention tips here from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The 2019-2020 Flu Season has been complicated by recent reports of a novel coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Common symptoms in an infected person include a fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

“While this public health situation is worrisome, we are encouraged by the proactive measures taken by the CDC,” said Dr. Randall Williams, director of DHSS. “The CDC tells us that the immediate health risk from 2019-nCoV to the general American public continues to be low at this time. We want to make sure Missourians--patients and doctors--are aware of this issue to avoid any local transmission of the virus.”

The Canton R-V School District works closely with the local health department, which will provide updated information about the diagnosis and management of cases of novel coronavirus, as applicable, in an effort to identify and contain any future cases.