As flu season approaches, KCII News sat down with Keota School Nurse Cathy Thalkan to talk about everything influenza-related.

The flu season begins in September or October and lasts until March or April. The flu, unlike the common cold, does not develop gradually and symptoms can appear suddenly. A fever, aches and chills, weakness, and tiredness are just a few of the symptoms. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is recommended that you either stay at home or avoid contact with others. Also, drink plenty of water, get adequate rest, and use over-the-counter medication that works for you.

Thalkan points out that there are some things you can do to prepare for the flu season in the first place. The most important things to do are to get your flu vaccine and to wash your hands. The vaccine is available now through December . Washing your hands will help wash away germs and keep the things you are touching clean, while also slowing the spread of germs. “When you are working with yourself and  you are preventing the flu yourself, you are keeping yourself safe; you are keeping your family safe; you are keeping your children safe,” Thalkan told KCII News.

Signs are posted throughout Keota Schools reminding students and staff to wash their hands. Keota is also cleaning desks, and equipment. In the event that a student shows symptoms or feels unwell, the district will send them home and notify their parents of the next best course of action.

Overall, Thlkan emphasizes the importance of maintaining good health not only for ourselves, but also for those around us.

More information about the flu can be found on the Keota School’s website, www.keota.k12.ia.us. Visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov for more information on the flu and other illnesses and viruses.