October 21, 2004 (The Associated Press) -- Tips for schools this flu season:
-Any student, teacher or staff member suspected of having the flu should not attend school.
-Students and teachers should wash hands several times a day, using soap and warm water, for 15 seconds to 20 seconds. Schools should allow regular breaks for hand washing.
-Schools should make sure tissues are available in all classrooms. Students and staff should be reminded to cover their mouths when coughing and use a tissue when sneezing.
-Schools may be required by their local health departments to report flu absences when they reach a certain number. Such reporting helps in tracking the flu in the community.
-Schools should ensure that ill students are excluded from sports, choir or other activities that may involve close contact. Students and staff should avoid sharing glasses, water bottles, drinks and utensils.
-School buses, because of the enclosed space, may allow for easy spread of the flu. Tissues should be available on the buses, and surfaces such as door handles and hand rails should be disinfected between trips if possible.
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