The Chesterfield County Health Department has shared that there have been increased reports of pediatric pneumonia in Virginia. Here are tips they have provided:

  • Wash hands often, especially when exposed to someone with an infection or when touching objects that may be contaminated.

  • Cover mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing or use your inner arm (elbow crease), but do not use your hands.

  • Dispose of facial tissues that contain nasal secretions after each use. Wash hands afterward.

  • Avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

  • Routinely clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces, toys, etc.

  • Students who are sick should remain home until they are fever-free for a full 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and other symptoms have improved such that they are feeling well enough to participate in school activities.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.