School Absences Spike During Flu Outbreak

Throughout Cranston, students (and teachers and parents) are sniffling, coughing, achy and otherwise feel awful thanks to the flu, which is in the midst of a major outbreak.

And most of them are staying home from school.

School Chief Operating Officer Ray Votto said "there is no question we have experienced a significant increase in our daily average" of absences. District wide, the average was 947 in November and the figure is now up to 1312 as of Friday.

"Now please understand that a child can be out of a variety of reasons but most of our uptick can be attributed to the flu. Also, across our employee groups we have seen an increase in not only the number of absences but also the length of sick time," Votto said.

Program Supervisor of Nursing Services Deborah Svitil offered the following advice to avoid the flu:

1.  Get the flu vaccination if you haven't done so already.  Flu clinics are listed on RI Department of Health website (www.health.ri.gov).

2.  Wash hands often using warm water and soap.  Dry thoroughly to prevent chapped, cracked skin.  Hand washing is the best proven method for protecting against the spread of illness.  Hand sanitizer is an acceptable alternative when soap and water are not available.

3.  Always wash hands before eating and after coughing, sneezing, using the bathroom, etc.

4.  Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue, then dispose of properly and promptly.

5.  Use your elbow, rather than your hands, when coughing or sneezing.

6.  Keep your hands away from your face.  Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Germs spread very easily this way.

7.  Stay away from people who are sick or have symptoms of the flu.  Avoid crowded, congested areas.

8.  Eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of water and healthy fluids, and get adequate rest.

There will be a flu clinic tomorrow at Western Hills Middle School from 4 to 7 p.m. The vaccine will be available for people 6-months-old or older. There will be no out-of-pocket expense. If you have insurance, bring your card, though.