Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects mainly the nose, throat, chest and lungs. The flu may cause mild to severe illness, and may even lead to death. In the very young, the elderly, and those with other serious medical conditions, infection can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia.

Symptoms of Influenza

Fever (typically ≥100° F) ·
Headache
Extreme tiredness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches
Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: Fast breathing or trouble breathing; Bluish skin color; Not drinking enough fluids; Not waking up or not interacting; being so irritable that the child does not want to be held; Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough. Fever with a rash.

Infectious Period People may be able to infect each other one day before symptoms occur and up to 10 days after being sick.

The Spread of Influenza Flu viruses mainly spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

What should I do to protect myself and my family from the flu?

Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds. Wash your hands before and after eating, going to the bathroom, or touching pets, phones, or keyboards.
Use hand sanitizer. If you cannot wash your hands, alcohol-based hand cleaner may be used if your hands do not look dirty.
Stay home from work or school when you are ill, and encourage others to do the same.
Stay away from others you know are ill. You are less likely to become ill if you stay at least three feet from someone who is coughing or sneezing.
Vaccination. The first line of defense against influenza is to get your influenza vaccination each year.

For more information on influenza visit the IDPH website

Oskaloosa School Recommendations:
If you get the flu: Stay home from work or school · Make sure and get plenty of rest and water. · Consult your doctor. Your child may return to school when fever free (< 100˚) for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

Oskaloosa Schools

Communicable Disease Fact Sheets

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Fifth Disease

Influenza

Lice

Methicillin (Staph or MRSA)

Mononucleosis

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Sore Throat