Flu Guidelines

January 18, 2018

Widespread influenza activity has been reported in 49 states, including New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.  Although anyone can get the flu, some people are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick, including people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes) pregnant women, and young children.  As such, all of us should be taking extra precautions against the spread of flu among our families.

We are asking that, effective immediately, you adhere to the following:

• Do not attend practices or games if you know you are sick.  This applies to players and all family members.
• Do not share water bottles during practices or games.  Please let your child know.
• Please wash/spray/wipe down all hockey equipment, including sticks and bags.

Furthermore, USA Hockey, with guidance from its Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Stuart, has issued the following information regarding the H1N1 infection, including some basic recommendations to reduce the likelihood of spreading the infection.
USA Hockey recommends:

• Provide individual water bottles. Do not share water bottles.
• Regularly wash hands.
• Clean workout gear for each practice/competition.
• Keep gloves on during the traditional handshake with opponents.

Individuals with influenza may develop typical signs or symptoms of: fever (102°degrees F or greater), cough, muscle aches, runny nose, headache, or sore throat with the potential for more serious complications, including. pneumonia.

This year’s influenza virus strain has particularly targeted children and young adults. Transmission of influenza virus may occur from the day before the onset of symptoms and during the 5-7 days that these symptoms are present.

Infected individuals should stay home until signs and symptoms have resolved and they have not had a fever for at least 24 hours. The 24-hour no-fever timeline should be achieved naturally, without the aid of fever reducing medications.

Additional information regarding H1N1 is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.