Flu Prevention for Teachers

Because teachers come in contact with so many children on a daily basis, they are at a high risk for catching colds and the flu. The flu can be an especially debilitating illness that can keep a teacher out of the classroom for days. And when the teacher is sick, children often don't learn. So it's important for teachers to try to stay healthy and prevent a cold or the flu from setting in.

Preventive Means

• Flu prevention begins before any signs or symptoms appear. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends three actions to prevent the flu. First, stay current on your flu shots. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the three most common forms of flu a teacher is likely to be exposed to. Second, the CDC recommends following the daily basic good hygiene practices, such as covering your mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, then throwing the tissue away. They recommend washing your hands often and to avoid touching your mouth or eyes, as that is a common way to spread germs. And certainly, if a child in the classroom is sick, that child should be sent to the nurse's office and sent home. The third preventive measure includes the use of flu antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them for your particular situation. These drugs are not sold over-the-counter and require a doctor's prescription. As well, they are most effective if started within the first two days of symptoms.

  The CDC recommends the H1N1 vaccine especially for pregnant women, people who work with babies or are in health care or emergency industries, people between the ages 6 months and 24 years, and anyone between 25 and 64 if they have chronic health issues or compromised immune systems, making them more susceptible to the flu. Although the vaccine is available, supplies are limited.

Additional Preventive Aids

• You may improve your chances of avoiding illness by staying healthy overall. That means eating healthy, getting a moderate amount of exercise, and giving your body the basic vitamin and mineral support it needs. Tired and stressed bodies are more susceptible to illnesses such as colds and flu. Keep up with your rest schedule and practice habits that reduce stress.

  Other than that, you can try over-the-counter products such as Airborne. To use as a preventive, take before exposing yourself to an area likely to have sick people, such as before going on a flight. The formula includes ingredients from vitamins, minerals and herbs that may boost the immune system.