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A Healthy Lifestyle

Published October 4, 2007

Tips to a healthy fall and winter:

Now that we are back in school and we have lots of people in a close environment, it is much easier to spread bacteria and viruses.  Nurse Coordinator Jorja Trocino shares information and advice for a healthy fall and winter.

Bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are common in our community.  We are exposed to them in our daily life, such as the mall or grocery store, movie theater or schools.  If you notice a sore or infected area you should contact your primary care physician and have it treated. 

Flu and cold season is approaching:  Viruses spread from person to person through the nose and throat.  If you have symptoms of fever, cough, chills, sore throat, or headache, stay home and drink lots of fluids and rest.

Parents are encouraged to remind students of these healthy personal hygiene tips:

1)  Hand Washing is your number one defense against flu, colds, viruses and bacteria that are in our community.  Remember to wash before eating, after using restroom, and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.  Use warm water, soap and rub your hands together vigorously for 20 seconds, remembering to rub between fingers.  Rinse thoroughly and dry with paper towel or dryer.

2)  Hand Sanitizer with 60 percent-90 percent alcohol base is a good alternative when hand washing is not available.

3)  A bleach water solution of 1:100 (I TBL bleach to 1 quart water) is good for cleaning surfaces.  Prepared bleach sprays are adequate for cleaning.  Hand wipes are good for cleaning before eating or after contact, but they do not kill all viruses and bacteria.  The basics of hand washing and cleaning surfaces with soap and water are a better choice. 

4)  Avoid contact with infected people or items.

5)  Avoid sharing personal items such as sports equipment, drinks, or food.

6)  Rest.  Make sure you that are getting an adequate amount of rest each and every night.

7)  Stay at home if you have a fever or any symptoms of the flu.

8)  Consult your doctor with any concerns or questions.

9)  Consider taking a flu shot this season. The CDC recommends it. 

We work very hard to keep our schools clean and a healthy environment for your students to learn.  If you have any questions or concerns please contact the school nurse at your child’s school.