Information about the Flu
The flu or influenza is a virus that
infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs). It is
spread person to person, by an infected person, when they
cough, sneeze or talk, sending the virus into the air. Flu
virus can also land on solid surfaces like doorknobs,
countertops, and desks.
Touching those surfaces and then touching your eyes,
mouth, or nose can transfer the virus into your body.
Symptoms of influenza includes a sudden onset of fever, sore throat, dry
cough, body aches, severe tiredness, and occasional vomiting
in children.
Prevention steps that everyone should practice include:
frequent hand washing with soap and water; covering
the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; avoid contact
with persons that have the flu or are sick; stay home when
you suspect you have the flu.
Tips to treat the flu include: rest
and drink plenty of liquids; take over the counter
medications as recommended by your healthcare provider; do not
give aspirin or aspirin containing medications to
children; contact your healthcare provider to determine if
antiviral medication would be effective for your case. Since
flu is a virus, antibiotics don’t work to cure it.
For more information please visit the following websites:
El Paso County Health Department: www.elpasocountyhealth.org
Center for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov
Colorado
State Law requires that incoming students have the following
immunizations prior to entering school:
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5 DTP/DTaP (Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis)*
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4 Polio*
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3 Hepatitis B
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2 MMR
(Measles/Mumps/Rubella)
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1 Varicella
(Chicken Pox) or History of the Disease
* The number of
DTP/DTtaP and Polio immunizations may very depending
on
the age prior immunizations were received.
Immunization requirements will be strictly enforced for all students, according
to the Colorado Revised Statutes 25-4-902.
Parents
may sign an exemption based on religious, medical or
personal reasons
Where can
you get your child immunized?
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Your
family doctor.
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El
Paso County Health Department Immunization Clinic: 301 S. Union Blvd. Appointments are necessary. Call
578-3272 to schedule an appointment.
Bring shot record with child.
For children, shots are $15 for each shot.
Cash, checks, VISA/MasterCard, and Medicaid are
accepted. No
walk-ins except for TB (tuberculosis) screening.
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Community
Health Center: 2502 E. Pikes Peak Ave., 632-5700.
You must be registered with them.
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