There have been several confirmed cases of influenza/flu at the German International School Washington D.C.. Influenza or flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild or severe illness, and at times it can lead to death. The flu is different from the common cold.  The flu usually comes on suddenly.  People who have contracted the flu often feel some or all of the following symptoms:

• Fever (not always) or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches (often severe)
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may suffer from vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Influenza is contagious even after symptoms appear.

Students must be free from fever for a minimum of 24 hours without intake  of fever reducing medications before returning to school.

It is not too late to get a flu shot. While it does not give 100% protection, the course of illness is generally milder in vaccinated persons compared to unvaccinated persons.