The flu season is near, that time of year when every sniffle or cough leads to the question, "Do I have the flu?" Working in a childcare setting means being in close proximity to lots of children, parents and other staff members--and any of them could be carrying the "flu bug."

The flu cannot only make childcare staff ill, it can be expensive, too. Consider the cost of a week of missed work and the hiring a substitute teacher or, if you're a home-based provider, temporarily closing your center--the flu can be expensive! Recognizing early flu symptoms and understanding flu prevention measures can make this winter a healthier one for your center. These questions and answers on the flu can be shared with childcare staff and parents.

What is the flu?

Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious viral disease that recurs each year, typically during the winter months, and strikes millions of adults and children. The flu is primarily an upper respiratory illness that can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract along with causing a sore throat, and runny/stuffy throat. Chills, fever, headaches, muscle aches and weakness might also appear.

How is the flu transmitted?

Sneezes and coughs are the main culprits. The virus can be inhaled (if someone nearby coughs or sneezes) and also can be transmitted by direct hand contact.

What is a flu shot?

Each year in the fall, flu shots are made available that can ward of the season's most common anticipated flu virus. The virus changes from year to year so flu shots are needed yearly to offer protection. October and November are the optimal months to receive the shot.

Can the flu shot give you the flu?

No, the vaccine is not infectious and cannot cause the flu. The shot is given in the arm and can cause soreness. Less than one-third of those receiving the shot may experience aches, fever or tiredness that may last a day or two.

Who should receive the flu shot?

People over the age of 65, those with chronic lung conditions or metabolic disorders, and those in contact with many people--such as health care or childcare workers should be inoculated. Many healthy adults (and children) get the flu shot each year just to lessen their chances of becoming ill.

Who should not receive the flu shot?

You should NOT get a flu shot if you are allergic to eggs (eggs are used in the vaccine), pregnant, allergic to the preservative thimerosal (a chemical preservative often found in contact lens solutions), have an acute illness at the time of the shot, or have reacted severely to a flu shot in the past.

Can the flu shot guarantee against the flu?

Not completely, but flu shots are 70-80 percent effective in reducing the risks of infection.

Where is the flu shot available?

Physicians' offices, senior citizen centers, health care facilities, health departments, and special events at shopping centers or grocery stores offer flu shots. The shots typically cost between $10-$20.

Resources

For information on the flu and flu shot, visit the Mayo Clinic's health information web site: www.mayohealth.org.