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Winter 2024-25

 

FCPS Wellness Newsletter Preventing Seasonal Flu and Other Influenza-like Illnesses

 

Flu and influenza-like illness season is here, and flu activity is expected to increase throughout the winter season.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overall respiratory illness activity in Virginia is moderate. In Fairfax County, emergency department visits for:

• COVID-19 are low, but increasing.
• Flu are moderate, but increasing.
• RSV are high, but decreasing.

Protect yourself and your loved ones by following the tips below to stay healthy and avoid becoming severely ill:

• Get vaccinated. It is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older as the single best way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu. 
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you are sick, if possible. For FCPS students, refer to the chart on this attendance page for recommendations on when to stay home. 
• Always cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, especially after contact with high-touch surfaces
• Bring fresh air in from outside, purify indoor air, or gather outdoors when possible — clean air reduces the risk of flu exposure.
• Get plenty of sleep, manage stress, stay hydrated, and eat healthy food

For more information, visit the CDC’s Influenza page.

Protect Yourself and Loved Ones from Pertussis/Whooping Cough

Since early 2024, Fairfax has experienced high pertussis activity, also known as whooping cough. In 2024, the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) investigated more than 100 cases of pertussis, the highest number of cases reported to the health department in a single year. This increase was also seen across Virginia and nationwide. 

The majority of pertussis cases in Fairfax in 2024 were in school-aged children, particularly among high school students. Getting the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is critical for reducing transmission.

*2024 numbers are preliminary Data Source: Virginia Monthly Morbidity Surveillance Report (VDH)

What is pertussis?

Pertussis is an illness caused by bacteria. It is spread from person to person through the air. When an ill person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets are released into the air that other people can breathe in. It spreads more easily when people spend a lot of time together or share breathing space such as in a classroom.

At first, pertussis can seem like a common cold. Symptoms can include:

• Runny or stuffed-up nose.
• Low fever.
• Mild cough.

These symptoms can last 1 to 2 weeks. Then, people may develop coughing fits (paroxysms) which can last weeks to months. During these fits, people may:

• Make a high-pitched “whoop” sound when they breathe in after a coughing fit.
• Vomit during or after coughing fits.
• Feel tired after the fit, but seem well in between fits.
• Have trouble sleeping at night.
• Struggle to breathe.
• Fracture (break) a rib from coughing too hard.

Others who are at higher risk for getting very sick include people with weakened immune systems and those with moderate or severe asthma.

How can I prevent getting pertussis?

The best way to avoid whooping cough is to get vaccinated. Two types of vaccines protect against it: DTaP and Tdap. They also protect against diphtheria and tetanus.

• Children should get five doses of DTaP, including at least one dose on or after their fourth birthday.
• Preteen ages 11 to 12 years should get a booster dose of Tdap before they start seventh grade.
• Adults should get a booster dose of Tdap every 10 years and during every pregnancy.

These vaccines work well, but protection fades over time, so booster doses are needed to ensure you are protected.

How is pertussis treated?

Healthcare providers usually treat whooping cough with antibiotics. It is important to start treatment early to prevent medical complications and to help prevent the spread of disease to others.

How can I protect myself and my loved ones?

• Stay up-to-date on vaccines that protect against pertussis.
• Talk to a healthcare provider if you or your child have been around someone with whooping cough. They may give you antibiotics to prevent illness.
• See a healthcare provider if you or your child have coughing fits. Seek immediate care if you or your child has trouble breathing.

Additional information:

• Learn more about whooping cough (pertussis) from the CDC.
• Check out required childhood immunizations on FCHD’s website.
• See the FCHD’s website for information on where to get your child vaccinated for pertussis and other routine immunizations.
• Visit FCHD’s web page and follow us on social media for updates on respiratory illnesses and other health topics.
• See the FCPS Attendance and Health Policy
• FCPS Immunization Resources

Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) Can Help with Early Diagnosis in Speech and Hearing Disorders

Early detection and intervention in speech and hearing disorders can significantly improve outcomes for children, laying the foundation for lifelong communication skills and increased academic success. Experts and organizations, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the CDC, emphasize the importance of identifying these challenges as soon as possible to mitigate potential developmental delays.

The Scope of the Problem

Speech and hearing disorders are among the most common developmental issues in children. According to the NIH, approximately 1 in 12 children in the United States aged 3-17 years has a speech or language disorder, and about 2-3 out of every 1,000 children in the U.S. are born with detectable hearing loss in one or both ears. These conditions, if left unaddressed, can hinder a child’s ability to learn, socialize, and achieve developmental milestones.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Vaishnavi (Vinnie) Sawant, speech language pathologist and acting rehabilitative service manager for the Speech and Hearing Clinic at the FCHD’s Joseph Willard Health Center, cites the importance of early identification of speech and hearing issues in children, which enables timely intervention, a critical factor for effective treatment. 

“Identifying speech and hearing problems early is crucial for timely support and effective treatment,” said Sawant. “Timely intervention gives children the best chance to thrive and connect with the world around them.”

Hearing screenings for newborns, often conducted within the first month of life, serve as a critical first step. The CDC recommends additional screenings and developmental check-ins at well-child visits to monitor milestones such as babbling, responding to sounds, and forming simple words.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Intervening early can dramatically improve outcomes for children with speech or hearing challenges. Speech-language therapy, for example, helps children develop communication skills tailored to their needs. Similarly, hearing aids, cochlear implants, and auditory-verbal therapy can support children with hearing loss in learning to listen and speak effectively.

Research shows that children who receive therapy early are more likely to develop age-appropriate communication skills and perform better in school. Additionally, early treatment can reduce the emotional and social impact of these disorders by enhancing confidence and interpersonal relationships.

Parental Role

Parents play a pivotal role in early detection. The CDC urges parents to monitor their child's milestones and consult healthcare providers if they notice delays in speech or hearing abilities. Community awareness programs and school-based screenings also contribute to early diagnosis by identifying children who might otherwise go unnoticed.

The Health Department Can Help

The Fairfax County Health Department provides screenings, evaluations, and therapy services to help children communicate more clearly. Speech, Language, and Hearing clinics are located in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Reston. For more information or to request services, visit the Speech and Hearing Services page on the Fairfax County website.

Tips for Keeping Kids Active in Winter

Winter is in full swing, bringing with it shorter and colder days. With a little planning and the tips below, you can have fun while staying safe and warm:

• Wear Protective Clothing.

• Dress in layers for warmth.
• Wear hats and gloves.
• Insulated boots are a must.
• Wear bright/light-colored clothing if outside as it gets dark earlier.

• Take Breaks Indoors.

• Set reasonable limits on the amount of time spent outside.
• Kids lose heat more quickly because they are smaller.
• Trade wet clothes for warm, dry clothing.
• Stay hydrated, even in winter.

• Have Fun!

• Take family bike rides or walks.
• Have relay races.
• Enjoy the snow:
• Build a snowman.
• Go sledding.
• Have a friendly snowball fight.

For some ideas of what to do outdoors, take a look at the Fairfax County Park Authority’s winter events happening across the county. 

If you or someone you know needs assistance getting cold-weather clothing for their family, please contact your school’s family liaison. You may also reach out to Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880.

Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month

January is National Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month. Many winter sports take place on snow or ice which leads to an increased likelihood of injuries including Traumatic Brain Injury.

• Snowboarding and Skiing: Head injuries are the leading cause of death and severe injury among skiers and snowboarders.
• Ice Hockey: Collisions and falls on the ice can result in traumatic brain injuries.
• Sledding: Each year, thousands of people, especially children, suffer sledding injuries, including severe head trauma. 

What is a traumatic brain injury? A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force impacts the brain. This can happen as a result of a fall or being hit with a hard object.

Anyone with signs of moderate or severe TBI should not be left alone and medical attention should be sought immediately. 

Signs of moderate to severe TBI:

• Loss of consciousness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Trouble with speech
• Blurry vision

How to avoid traumatic brain injuries:

• Wear proper helmets.
• Always wear a helmet for high-velocity sports like skiing and snowboarding.
• Ensure your helmet fits well and replace it after a serious fall or impact.

Practice Proper Training

• Engage in proper training for skiing, snowboarding, and skating to improve balance and learn safe falling techniques.

Sled Safely

• Sled only in areas free from trees, rocks, fences, or buildings.

Be Aware of Surroundings

• Assess your environment for potential hazards.
• Stay informed about current weather conditions.
• Never participate in outdoor activities alone.
• Ensure children are properly supervised during sports and play.

References:

Winter Sports: Prevent Traumatic Brain Injuries - Benton Franklin Health District

National Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month — Mountainside Medical Equipment

Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month - Virginia Department of Health

Kid's Heart Challenge: A Healthy Start to the New Year

 

The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on our health and well-being. The American Heart Association’s Kid's Heart Challenge is a fantastic initiative that promotes heart health and inspires kids to stay active while making a positive impact in their communities. Several FCPS elementary and middle schools are already registered to take part in the challenge this year. 

What is the Kid's Heart Challenge?

The Kid's Heart Challenge is a fun and engaging program that encourages students to learn about heart health while raising funds for the American Heart Association (AHA). Through various activities and challenges, children learn about the importance of physical activity, healthy eating, and helping others.  

An essential component of the program is the opportunity for students and their parents/caregivers to watch Finn’s Mission and learn hands-only CPR. Hands-only CPR is a vital skill that could help save the life of someone experiencing cardiac arrest. 

Positive Community Impacts:

• Promoting Healthy Habits: The program empowers kids to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
• Fostering Teamwork and Leadership: Students work together to achieve common goals, building strong bonds and leadership skills.
• Raising Awareness: The Kid's Heart Challenge raises awareness about heart disease and the importance of prevention.
• Supporting a Worthy Cause: Funds raised through the program support research, education, and advocacy efforts that save lives.

A Fresh Start for a Healthy Year:

The Kid's Heart Challenge is a great way to kick off the new year with a focus on health and well-being. By participating, kids can:

• Set Healthy Goals: Whether it's increasing physical activity, eating more fruits and vegetables, or reducing screen time, the program encourages kids to set and achieve personal goals.
• Learn Lifelong Skills: The program teaches valuable lessons about healthy living that can benefit kids for years to come.
• Make a Difference: By raising funds for the AHA, kids can make a real difference in the lives of others.

We encourage you to learn more about heart health by visiting the American Heart Association website for information and resources.

Let's make this new year a healthy one!

This article was written in collaboration with Gemini. 

Pump Up Your Heart with Wellbeats February Challenge

 

Protect your heart health by joining the Pump Up Your Heart Health Challenge with Wellbeats! This two-week challenge is designed to help you build healthy routines and strengthen your cardiovascular health. Join Wellbeats cardio classes or include activities you enjoy daily to build a healthier lifestyle and enhance your wellness journey during Heart Month.

The challenge takes place Monday, February 3, to Friday, February 14. To register, log in to your Wellbeats Wellness account. Look for the yellow banner on the homepage and click Learn More. Click Join This Challenge to start tracking your progress. Join as an individual or team of five. 

Weekly prizes will be awarded to the participant who has logged the most activities. For more information, email [email protected]. Visit the American Heart Association or Centers for Disease Control websites to learn more about heart health.

Support for Work-Life Balance for You and Your Family

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offered through Guidance Resources, is a complimentary benefit available to all FCPS employees and their household members. This program is designed to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance by providing 24/7 support, resources, and information for life’s challenges.

With the EAP, you can access a range of services, including:

• Confidential counseling at no cost.
• Legal and financial support tailored to your needs.
• Personalized work-life resources, including assistance from work-life specialists who can act as your "personal assistant" to research and address your needs in areas like:
• Eldercare, childcare, and pet care.
• Vacation or event planning.
• College tuition guidance.
• Moving and relocation.

Whether your request is big or small, the EAP can help alleviate stress, save time, and make life’s tasks more manageable.

How to Get Started:

• Call the FCPS dedicated EAP line: 855-355-9097.
• Register online at www.guidanceresources.com (Web ID: FCPS).

For more information, visit the Employee Assistance Program Hub or email [email protected].

2024-25 Wellness Reporting

This spring, FCPS will implement annual wellness reporting, as required by FCPS Regulation 2100. Previous wellness reporting results for each school are available to the public and may be accessed on the FCPS Wellness Reporting Webpage.

Principals will receive communication from the FCPS Wellness Leadership Team to complete the 2024-2025 Wellness Survey for their school. Wellness committee members may be asked by administrators to support wellness reporting in their school communities. Thank you, in advance, for your support of FCPS wellness reporting.