Sarah Robjent
Dear Parents/Caregivers,
We have had two confirmed cases of Influenza A in our school.
Influenza is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, running nose, sore throat and a cough. Recovery occurs in two to seven days although if severe, the cough may last longer. Influenza can be a serious illness.
Influenza is spread when infected airborne droplets, produced by coughing or sneezing by someone with influenza, come into contact with a mucous membrane (lining of nose and mouth). Infection may also be spread by contact with hands, tissues and other articles soiled by infected nose and throat discharges.
The Incubation period is 1 – 3 days between becoming infected and developing symptoms.
The Infectious period is 3 – 5 days from the onset of symptoms in adults, and up to 21 days in young children.
A person with suspected or confirmed influenza should be excluded from child care, preschool, school or work until they feel well.
It is important to seek medical advice due to the potential seriousness of this illness and the variability as to how individuals might react.
Please let the school know if your child is affected by Influenza A so that we can inform the other families in our school.
Thank you.