We can't stop every illness at child care. But the good news is that parents and child care providers can help slow the spread of the
flu (influenza).
Flu infections are highly contagious. The respiratory illness is caused by a virus. It spreads easily when children are in a group with other children such as in a child care center or family child care home.
Flu is more dangerous than the
common cold for children. It can lead to serious health conditions like pneumonia or bacterial infections. Each year many children are hospitalized and some die from the flu.
The following resources provide information on preventing the flu. Materials and tools for child care facilities also are included.
Flu vaccine
The
flu vaccine is the best way to protect against getting the flu. Everyone age 6 months and older need a flu vaccine each year. Babies cannot get their first flu shot until they are
6 months old.
It is critical that people who live with or care for children—especially newborns and infants younger than 6 months—get vaccinated. Immunizing adults and children who are around an infant to prevent illnesses is often referred to as "cocooning."
Protect kids with chronic health conditions
Children and teens with chronic health conditions, such asthma, heart disease, diabetes and disorders of the brain or nervous system. are at high risk for flu complications.
Fight germs
Taking the time to wash hands and clean and disinfect surfaces goes a long way toward keeping germs away. As adults, we know to wash our hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing or wiping noses. When you cough or sneeze, cough into your sleeve or arm or into a tissue. Be sure to dispose of the tissue and wash your hands. Parents and child care providers can do their part to stop germs by teaching and reminding young children how and when to wash their hands.
Prevent the spread of illness in child care
Young children who have just entered child care are more vulnerable to infectious diseases. This is because it may be the first time they have been exposed to certain germs. In addition, they may be too young to have received enough doses of
recommended vaccines to have developed immunity.
Caregivers and teachers can do their part by supporting ways to avoid the spread of infections in child care and keep community immunity strong.
How sick is too sick?
When children are healthy, they can go to child care or school, and parents can go to work. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to make sure everyone can continue to participate in these important activities.
You'll know if your child needs to stay home. They may feel too sick to participate in activities. Or, they require care beyond what the caregivers can provide and it takes away from their ability to care for the other children.
More resources