Clinic news

Colds are acute respiratory infections that begin, run their course, and end.

A cold lasts from 2-14 days, depending on the virus. At first, the nasal secretions are thin and clear, and then gradually get thicker before going away.

Students can continue to attend school with a cold. Exclude from school if student has a fever or severe cough. Encourage high fluid intake. Strongly recommend good hand washing. Keep tissues and antibacterial waterless soap in your child’s backpack. Have your child cough into their elbow. Encourage rest. Everyone should avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth. Don’t share drinks or drink bottles.

Is it a cold or the Flu??????

Symptoms	Cold	Flu
Fever	rare	characteristics high 102-104 degrees
Headache	rare	prominent
General aches, pains	slight	usual: moderate to severe
Fatigue and weakness	quite mild	yes: can last 2-3 weeks
Runny stuffy nose	common	sometimes
Sneezing	common	sometimes
Sore throat	common	sometimes
Chest discomfort	common	common

Source: The New School Health Handbook. Third edition

Nora Gillespie RN GHS clinic

Betty Weis RN GMS clinic