It’s that time of the year again where Centra Care is flooded, flu shots are scarce, and make up work is a must. Yes, it’s flu season once again! Every year there is a time where it seems as though everyone is catching the flu. This year, in particular, was pretty bad and some even considered it an “epidemic.” There have been over 2,000 hospitalizations and at least 18 deaths.
The virus that was going around this 2012-2013 year was called H3N2 and it is a strain type A influenza. It has historically been associated with more severe illnesses. This year’s flu shot was said to be very well protected against the H3N2, yet many people were hesitant to take the flu shot, resulting in severe illness in those who didn’t take it and for some of those who did.
These numbers are worrying both students and teachers at Seminole High School. Teacher Gail Bonjione explained, “The flu season concerns me because it is epidemic and deadly! I always get my flu shot because I want to protect myself as much as possible.”
Teachers are constantly around sick students, especially during this time. Even teachers- and their own personal children- have gotten the flu this year and have needed a substitute to teach their class.
Teacher Jessica Freeman said, “[I] worry about my daughter getting sick […] my own students missing school is also frustrating- I worry about them missing work and growing overwhelmed. I think it is beneficial for students to stay home when they’re ill- in the end it will be more productive for them and it hopefully helps to prevent the spread of germs.”
Even though some students still attend school while they are ill, it is best for them to stay home. Someone who is sick can’t function the way they need to, to do their best at school. Make-up work can seem like a lot, but in the end it will help the student if they stay home.
Health Academy and Seminole in general, teach students some techniques on how to avoid getting the flu.
Junior Tom Nguyen said, “Health Academy taught me to keep washing my hands, so catching the flu is even harder for me. I didn’t get the flu this year, so that’s good.”
The flu can be hard on anyone but the best ways to prevent the flu- according to Health Academy, teachers, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a flu vaccine, frequent hand washing, and plenty of rest.