Flu season is sneaking up on all of us… Protect yourself and those around you this season… Get the flu vaccine!!!
It is easier than ever to get your flu vaccine. Anyone aged six months and older who lives, works or attends school in Ontario is eligible to receive the publicly funded flu vaccine. Visit the Ottawa Public Health page to view a list Flu Clinics near you http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/public-health/flu-clinics or Public Health Agency of Canada www.Fightflu.ca
Did you know that children under the age of 5 years old are at higher risk of serious complications from the flu? The flu (influenza) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. Flu infections are highly contagious. They spread easily when children are in a group with other children such as in a child care center or family child care home.
Some ways that parents and child care providers can help prevent and slow the spread of the flu are:
- Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use and wash your hands. If a tissue is not available, cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve, not your hand.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces or objects. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill.
When children are healthy, they can go to child care or school, and parents can go to work. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to make sure everyone can continue to participate in these important activities.
The Children’s Place Childcare is looking into hosting our very own flu clinic on site or at a near by pharmacy. Check back soon for more details!
