Schools prep for flu season

SPARTA, Mich. (WOOD) - How prepared are our schools for the flu?

As many as 50 West Michigan schools closed last year because of H1N1 flu and seasonal influenza concerns.

It starts with this year's flu vaccine that is due out in October. It includes protection for the H1N1 strand.

24 Hour News 8 talked to the nurse from Sparta area schools who said she expects a typical flu season. She said she is ready just in case.

Sparta schools closed last October for three days to disinfect all campuses. Officials say their plan is similar to what other schools in the county do --

• Schools across Kent County need to send their attendance weekly to the county health department. This allows them to see if there are any health trends among students.
• Schools usually send letters home with kids and post information on their websites.
• Schools might offer flu shot clinics in October. Just ask your school if it plans on having one.

Flu shots are the same for everyone older than 6 months, which should limit the confusion from the past.

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Online:

Michigan Department of Community Health flu information

Centers for Diseason Control and Prevention flu information