Journal 10 - Health Alert

Posting health alerts on the classroom door where the illness has occurred is a great communication tool. The health alert lets the parents know a contagious illness is spreading around the program and what the symptoms are, how to prevent the illness from spreading, and what to do if your child gets infected.

Health Alert:
It has recently been reported to the center that your child may have been exposed to Streptococcal Sore Throat - "Strep."

What it is:
Strep throat is a bacterial infection. Not every sore throat is strep.

What to look for:
Symptoms include;

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Oozing & redness of tonsils and throat

How it is spread:

• Inhaling respiratory droplets from an ill person
• Sneezing or coughing
• Indirect contact with hands or objects

If you suspect your child has been infected:
Isolate the child from the other children. Take the child to their pediatrician for a lab throat culture to diagnose strep.

What should be done to prevent the spread:

• Frequent hand washing
• Good personal hygiene practices should be followed
• Do not share eating utensils, food, or drinking cups
• Wash and sanitize toys mouthed by infants & toddlers