As flu and cold season approaches, school nurses play a vital role in prevention and early response, protecting students and staff across every grade level. Schools are natural hotspots for respiratory infections, with students sharing classrooms, supplies, and crowded environments. Early prevention and education make all the difference, and school nurses are at the heart of that effort.
By promoting healthy habits, spotting early symptoms, and guiding school-wide health practices, nurses help ensure schools stay safe, healthy, and ready for learning
CDC-Recommended Flu and Cold Prevention Tips for Schools Demographics & Talent Shortages
Here are some key CDC-backed strategies that school nurses can apply and promote this flu and cold season:
- Avoid close contact: Encourage students and staff to stay home when they feel sick. If symptoms appear during the day, isolate the individual in a designated space until they can go home. According to the CDC, maintaining physical distance can help lower the risk of spreading respiratory viruses.
- Cover your nose and mouth: Teach proper respiratory etiquette like coughing or sneezing into a tissue or elbow. Masks can also be helpful during outbreaks or when caring for symptomatic students. The CDC notes that when worn by someone infected, masks reduce the spread of droplets to others.
- Wash hands frequently: Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to prevent infection. Encourage students to wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Place dispensers in key areas like classrooms, hallways, and cafeterias.
- Avoid touching your face: Germs can easily enter the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth. Simple awareness reminders can help students break this habit.
- Improve air quality: Fresh air reduces virus concentration indoors. Open windows, use air purifiers, or hold classes outdoors when possible. The CDC highlights that cleaner air can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to respiratory pathogens.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces: Encourage daily cleaning of desks, doorknobs, light switches, and shared materials with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved disinfectants.
- Promote vaccination: The CDC emphasizes that the flu shot remains the best line of defense. School nurses can remind families and staff to get vaccinated early in the season.
- Encourage overall wellness: Support habits that build immunity — balanced nutrition, enough sleep, hydration, physical activity, and stress management.
How School Nurses Can Strengthen Health in Schools
School nurses can go beyond daily care by establishing lasting health practices:
- Create clear health policies: Set clear stay-home guidelines and share them with teachers and parents.
- Set up a safe isolation area: Provide a well-ventilated waiting space for symptomatic students until they’re picked up.
- Track absences and trends: Monitor illness-related absences to identify outbreaks early.
- Educate and communicate: Lead quick talks, post hygiene reminders, and share flu season updates.
- Collaborate locally: Coordinate with public health offices or community clinics for vaccination drives.
- Take care of yourself: School nurses face constant exposure — prioritize your own flu shot and rest when needed.
Join the Effort to Keep Students Healthy
Flu and cold prevention in schools starts with proactive school nurses and established school health guidelines. By promoting CDC-recommended hygiene practices, encouraging vaccination, and fostering a health-conscious school culture, nurses can have a big impact in keeping students and staff healthy all season long.
At RCM Healthcare Services, we recognize the vital role school nurses play in protecting the school community. Our School Nursing division proudly partners with districts nationwide to connect skilled nurses to where they’re needed most, ensuring every child has access to safe and reliable care year-round.
Explore our current school nursing opportunities and make a difference this flu season.