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Other article:
Washing Hands to Stay Healthy
November 24, 2009
Source: Community Partnership Update/December 2009
 First thing in the morning, it can be difficult to decide whether a child is sick enough to stay home from school. With minor symptoms, parents and caregivers cannot tell whether the child is going to get better or worse during the course of the day.
According to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, if your child has the following symptoms, medical care may be needed:
• Coughing, especially if it is a persistent during the day. This may be a sign of a secondary infection (e.g. sinusitis, pneumonia), which may require medical treatment.
• Fever (generally considered to be higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) is an important symptom, especially when it occurs along with a sore throat, nausea or a rash. Children with fever should stay home until there is no fever for 24 hours.
• Flu is a contagious virus that usually occurs in the winter months. Consult your child's doctor for treatment suggestions to make your child more comfortable.
These illnesses, and others, can be spread easily -- both in school and in the family. Keep in mind that hand washing is the single most important thing done to teach children to help prevent the spread of germs and infections. Hand washing isn't always possible in some situations. When soap and water isn't readily available, alcohol-based gels or foams should be used to help prevent the spread of germs. It's important to remember that alcohol-based gels and foams kill germs on hands, but do not remove dirt or grime.
Always wash your hands before:
• Preparing food
• Eating
• Treating wounds
• Giving medicine
Always consult a doctor or other health care provider if you have questions or concerns about the care or health of your child. A Children's Healthcare of Atlanta pediatric advice nurse is available 24 hours a day at 404-250-KIDS.
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