Health update: Cold and flu season

With cold and flu season well underway, as well as the continued presence of COVID-19, we wanted to issue a timely reminder to our school community about the importance of taking practical infection control measures to protect ourselves and those at risk. In line with government advice, we recommend that all members of our school community take the following practical steps to help minimise the spread of colds, influenza, COVID-19 and other illnesses:

Hand hygiene: Continue to maintain good hand hygiene practices, including frequently washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, and using hand sanitiser when this is not possible. This is especially important before eating.
Air ventilation: Maintain good air ventilation by opening doors and windows to let in fresh air when you can. At school, we will be airing out classrooms and indoor spaces where possible, as well as making use of air purifiers.
Masks: Consider wearing a mask, particularly in situations where physical distancing isn’t possible.
Monitor for symptoms: If your child is experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, they are required to stay at home until the symptoms have subsided. Always undertake a rapid antigen test (RAT), and if you test positive for COVID-19, stay at home for at least five days and until you have no symptoms. If your symptoms are getting worse, contact your GP for support. Talk to your doctor if you are at a higher risk of severe illness, as you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines. Students who are unwell at school will be directed to the sick bay, and parents and carers will be asked to collect them.
Vaccinations: Influenza vaccines for 2024 are now available at GPs, pharmacies and local clinics, and are free for those who are most at risk of complications through the Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program. COVID-19 vaccinations are also available in line with the latest recommendations from ATAGI.

I also wanted to take this opportunity to let parents and carers know that we have now implemented a new system to record all first aid administered to students under our care. Using the new system, any time a student receives first aid, parents and carers will receive an email detailing the incident and the care provided. These notifications will include links to additional resources (e.g. head injury information from the Royal Children's Hospital). Families will always be contacted via phone in the first instance regarding more serious incidents or where children need to be collected.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions about infection control measures or our new first aid emails.

Mrs Alli Williams

Health Services Manager