Increase in viral illnesses
NSW Health is seeing a steep rise in respiratory viruses affecting children attending early childhood education and care services.
This includes influenza (also known as 'flu'), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19.
These illnesses are contagious and can spread easily between young children, especially in early childhood education and care services, where children learn and play in close contact with each other. Young children who get the flu may be infectious for longer and spread it to adults.
GPAC has been advised to take steps to protect staff, visitors and the children at our Centre by:
• Remind parents to keep any sick children at home. Staff and visitors who are sick should also stay away from the workplace.
• Clean hands often and supervise young children when washing their hands or if using hand sanitiser. Play together where there’s fresh air, if possible.
• Practise good hygiene and display hand hygiene signage.
• Stay up to date with COVID-19 and flu vaccinations and display the children’s flu vaccine poster.
For more information visit the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Staying Safe web page.
