JFK Middle School: Patriot Herald Newsletter JFK Patriot Herald 2020 Q2 | Page 7

From the Nurses…. Winter is blasting around us bringing flu bugs and colds and all sorts of respiratory problems! We all know to wash our hands frequently, to sneeze and cough into our elbow and get a flu shot but germs can still take over. How can you tell if it is the flu or “just a cold”? Fever- rare with a cold, common with the flu (can exceed 102) Headache, body aches- rare with a cold, common and often severe with the flu Fatigue – possible with colds but can last 2 – 3 weeks with the flu Sneezing, sore throat- frequent with a cold, rare with the flu Chest discomfort, cough- mild to moderate with a cold, severe with the flu These are just some of the differences- ALWAYS contact your doctor if you or your child have weakness, high fever or difficulty breathing - There are medications for the flu that can lessen the symptoms and severity of the flu if you go to the doctor. Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids…chicken noodle soup and tea are perfect “sick food”!! Just a reminder, if your child has a fever or active vomiting, they need to be out of school until symptom free for 24 hours. If they are diagnosed with strep throat, they need at least 24 hours on the medication. Coats and scarves and gloves – socks and boots and long pants ----have your student dress for the weather in layers.. and toss a pair of dry socks into their backpack, just in case! SCOLIOSIS SCREENING Scoliosis screening will take place for Grade 7 girls in PE classes in February. Students not scheduled for PE will be screened in the nurses’ office in February or March. If you have any questions, please call us at 860-763-8880. STAY WARM AND SAFE DURING THIS WINTER SEASON…. 7