Responding to cold and flu

During this time, it’s important to remember three key steps to keep your schools happy and healthy

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has advised that there is an increased rate of influenza reports throughout Victoria. Schools are also reporting higher rates of students affected by influenza.

How can my school respond best?

All schools should consider the following important points when responding to students affected by influenza:

1. Students with cold or flu-like symptoms should be encouraged to seek medical attention, limit contact with others and stay at home until symptoms have passed.
2. If a child becomes ill at school with these symptoms, schools should contact the family and arrange for the collection of the child.
3. Good general hygiene remains the best defense against infection. Schools should encourage children to regularly wash their hands and cover their nose and mouth if sneezing and coughing.