This cold and flu season has been especially hard on families with the triple threat of the influenza virus or flu, respiratory syncytial virus (better known as RSV), and COVID-19. As a reminder, please do not send your child to school if they are feeling sick.  Keeping your sick child home will be a great benefit for the health and wellness of all of our students and staff. Also, reach out to your child’s medical provider to ensure your student is up-to-date on vaccinations.

What Symptoms to Look For 

The flu, COVID-19 and RSV can have similar symptoms.  RSV is a virus causing respiratory illness in young children. It is the most frequent cause of lower respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, in children under 1 year of age. Symptoms in most children and adults resemble a cold and begin with fever*, runny nose, cough, and sometimes wheezing. In very young children, and particularly with premature infants, symptoms may include lethargy, irritability, poor feeding, and breathing difficulty. Most children recover from illness in 8 to 15 days.

Additional Resources for Families

RSV Frequently Asked Questions Fact Sheet

Illness Prevention

CDC Influenza Guidance

CDC Symptoms Flu vs COVID

Protect Your Family from the Flu

Protect Your Family from the Flu (Spanish)

Free Vaccine Clinic for Families

Skagit County Public Health recently expanded their free vaccine services for children and adolescents. To learn more and make an appointment, go to the Skagit County Public Health website or call 360-416-1500. Bilingual staff will be made available to support.