EV-D68
The CDC continues to surveill the spread of EV-D68. To date 43 states have documented cases. EV-D68 is one of a family of very common viruses found in our communities. Symptoms of infection are usually mild, and mimic those of the typical cold, however symptoms can be severe in some people, especially those with underlying lung conditions. Prevention includes frequent hand washing, as the spread of the virus occurs from person-to-person contact. There is no vaccine or known treatment for this virus other than supportive care for the symptoms. For further information, see the CDC website:
http://www.cdc.gov/non-polio-enterovirus/outbreaks/EV-D68-outbreaks.html
Lice
The recent lice outbreak in kindergarten is a great opportunity for some reminders about lice infestations. We currently do not have any active cases of lice in the school!
- Lice do not carry disease. The only symptom that they cause is itching.
- Lice are usually transmitted through prolonged physical contact with an infested person. They are very infrequently transmitted via carpeting and upholstery. Lice do not fly or jump through the air from one person to another.
- Lice are uniquely designed to cling to human hair. They die quickly once separated from a human host. Vacuuming of carpets and upholstery is sufficient to remove them.
- Oil, mayonnaise, hair products, hair dye and various other home remedies have not been proven to prevent lice infestation.
- Nits found close to the scalp, ¼ to ½ inch are active and need to be treated and removed. Nits found further down the hair shaft are typically dead and do not need to be removed.
- Reminding your child to not share combs, brushes, hats, costumes, jackets etc. can help prevent the spread of lice from person to person.
Eating The Rainbow
In walking through the cafeteria every day, I am astonished at the variety of meals our students eat. Some are loaded with fruits and vegetables. Some none at all. Some are nothing but prepackaged items, high in sugar, salt and fat, some are entirely homemade. Whatever they eat, most children do not get enough great nutrition in their day. Here is a great and simple activity for teaching your child sound eating principles. Get them involved in keeping a daily chart of their rainbow food choices, and help them to make healthy choices for their lunch box. I’ve also included some links for fun activities to do with your child.
https://gallery.mailchimp.com/fdcae9e4ba04c333cde18f2c4/files/Rainbow_Diet_Weekly_Planner_Sheet.pdf?utm_source=Clean+Newsletter&utm_campaign=47416d7248-Eat_the_rainbow_9_29_2014&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_88ac180814-47416d7248-399299837&mc_cid=47416d7248&mc_eid=8664000ce0
.http://www.todayiatearainbow.com/
http://fit.webmd.com/jr/food/article/food-rainbow-activity