In the fall, many people get sick with the flu. The flu season begins in November and lasts until March. The flu may cause a cough, chills or fever. Your head or ears can hurt too.
There are some things you can do to that may help you not get sick. Remember to:
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. You can use your elbow if you don’t have a tissue.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water rubbing them together for 20 seconds – you can sing the “Happy Birthday” song to let you know how long to wash.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with someone who is sick.
• If you aren’t feeling well, tell your mom, dad or an adult like a teacher at school.
Your mom or dad may take you to the doctor for a flu shot. A flu shot will protect you from getting a bad case of the flu and may protect you from getting the flu at all. Flu shots are given in the fall before flu season starts. Shots don’t hurt much, so don’t worry!
Most people who get the flu are sick for about a week. If you get the flu, you will need to stay home from school. You will feel better soon if you rest and drink lots of fluids.