You're In Good Hands

The change of seasons has certainly had an impact on the schools head lice issues. I can only guess that our little friends are comfortably hibernating under beanies for the winter.

However we have a more pressing health concern, that has already started to impact teachers and student attendance.  Unfortunately the  autumn/winter season brings on different challenges for our community in terms of highly infectious respiratory viruses. Even Victoria’s Chief Health Officer has raised concerns over the  cocktail of viruses that people will be exposed to over the next couple of months. 

The top concerning viruses include

• Influenza A
• Flu
• COVID
• RSA (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
• The good old common cold. 
• Whooping cough

Funny enough, the above viruses have identical  signs and symptoms and may only vary in severity or in the order that the symptoms are presented

• Sore throat and runny nose
• Coughing
• Sudden fever, high temps and or the chills 
• Headache, 
• Stomach upsets, 
• Aches and pains.
• Cough or noisy breathing
• Low energy
• Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
• Unusual lack of appetite
• Wheezing

What can you do to help the School community stay healthy?

• I’m going to be blunt: Nobody wants a virus stricken person in the classroom.  If your child has any of the above symptoms please keep them home, or make alternative arrangements for your child to be cared for. If you are not sure what to do, either
  • Call nurse-on-call 1300 606024
  • Visit your GP for a diagnosis

• Remember to reinforce good hygiene practices
  • Sneeze and cough into the elbow
  • Sanitize hands
  • Wear a mask if unwell

• Potential preventative measures
  • Ensure your child comes to school with appropriate clothing on (Jumpers/warm clothing)
  • Increase your child’s immunity
    • Consider visiting a naturopath
    • Ask your friendly pharmacist for advice on what are the best supplements that can support the immune system
    • Quality sleep and heaps of veggies also helps

Please consider the impact that one sick child could have on their classroom, teacher, and other families. Let’s work together.

Have a great week

Jenny Klein

School Nurse