How to Prevent and Handle an Illness Outbreak

Most of the time, symptoms including runny noses, coughs, and vomiting are not too serious or pose no threat to others exposed. However, sometimes those symptoms signal infectious diseases that can cause severe illness or be life threatening.
With some advance planning, a few simply daily health practices, and the help of health professionals, early childhood programs can prevent illness spread and play an important role in controlling them when outbreaks occur.

General prevention measures and advance preparation

• Keep immunization records up-to-date and refer families to health care providers for immunizations.
• Carry out daily health checks: Observe all children as they arrive and change in child's behavior.
• Separate children and staff who are ill: Provide a space the child can be comfortable and supervised.
• Develop guidelines about when sick children and staff can return after an illness.
• Teach and monitor 'respiratory etiquette' and hand hygiene. Cover nose and mouth when coughing, keep hands away from the nose, eyes and mouth, do not share eating utensils or cups. Wash hands with soap and water regularly. Visit www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm for more information on respiratory etiquette.
• Perform routine environmental cleaning.

When an outbreak happens, don't get excited - help is available

Always remember to stay calm. Rely on advanced preparation and knowledge of where to get help when faced with outbreaks. Local and state health departments, along with the CDC are important resources when communicable diseases threaten communities.

An ongoing relationship with a heal

th consultant can be invaluable. Visit ncrkids.org for more information on health consultants.

Source: ChildCare Exchange

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