The nation is experiencing extraordinarily high influenza (flu) activity as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC, the predominant virus is influenza A(H3N2).

There are several ways to protect yourself and your family. Health officials recommend getting a flu vaccine. It is safe and continues to be the best way to guard against the flu. More than 10,000 students and over 300 faculty and staff have received FREE flu vaccines through a partnership between Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Healthy Schools, LLC. A vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older. It is still early in flu season, and not too late to get the vaccine.

Frequent hand-washing with soap and water is a great start to guard against the flu. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Remember to clean and disinfect hard surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs, including bathroom surfaces, kitchen counters and toys for children.

Knowing the symptoms of the flu is also critical to care and prevention. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. If you or members of your family experience any of these, it is important to stay home for at least 24 hours. If symptoms linger, seeing a health care professional as soon as possible is the next best course of action.

DCSMEC  urges you to do all you can to keep you and your family safe and healthy during flu season it’s paramount. For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.