School Nurse

 

Stay well this winter

First of all, welcome back to school!  I hope you had a wonderful holiday. As we start term 3, the Department of Education has sent the following information to share with our school community:

In Victoria, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection numbers are high among children aged 5 to 11 years, particularly in those in their first few years of school. 

Victorian Department of Health expects more respiratory infections over Term 3.

Most children with flu or RSV have a mild fever, runny nose or cough. Some children, particularly babies and children with underlying medical conditions, may have more severe illness. 

Keeping your child at home if they are unwell helps stop spread to others, and keeps our students and teachers healthier.

Keeping our school community well

Parents, carers ,students and staff are encouraged to:

· wash and sanitise their hands regularly

· avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

· cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing 

· stay at home if unwell and consult a general practitioner (GP) or NURSE-ON-CALL as needed

· stay up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.

Notify the school nurse and classroom teacher if your child tests positive to COVID-19 and keep them home for the recommended 5 day period.

Our school has masks for staff, students and visitors if they want to wear them. We also have a limited number of extra rapid antigen tests. Please ask the school nurse if you would like further supplies. 

Flu vaccinations

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting the flu. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. As part of the National Immunisation Program, it is free for:

· Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older

· children aged 6 months to under 5 years

· people aged 6 months or older with underlying medical conditions.

Flu vaccinations can be booked through GPs, pharmacies or your local council immunisation service.

Find out more:

For more information about staying safe this winter, refer to:  

Stay well this winter on the Better Health Channel

Please feel free to contact me if you have any concerns. 

I hope you stay healthy and well during this winter period! 

Warm regards,

Nurse Cecile