Created: 8/27/2009 5:11:36 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- A handwashing song is just one trick child cares are using to battle the spread of flu symptoms. And they have been working at it all summer, long before back to school time. "We did the training, we've also been proactive with our parents making sure they and their children know immediately after entering a room they wash their hands," says Sherrie Boger with Chappell Child Development Services. At Chappell, even infants get frequent hand washings, and so far the diligence has worked. "This is the first week of school and we have been doing wonderfully keeping the germs out of the building and illnesses out of the building," says Boger. At ABC Christian Academy, they have kept absences at a minimum with frequent room and desk cleaning. "We can only hope we can continue to run the course we've been running and don't get too many sick teachers or students," says Boger. The county health department has advised day cares to take extra steps and has a message for parents. "You would be surprised how many parents send their kids sick, give them Motrin, hope they make it through the day and don't have a fever at day care, it happens. But we need to think about others, not just ourselves," says Dr. Pauline Rolle with the Duval County Health Department. Rolle says she hasn't seen an increase in flu cases coming into her Westside Clinic. Thursday the CDC stressed it is vital for pregnant women and new parents to get the swine flu vaccine to protect themselves and their children. Health officials say women in any trimester of pregnancy should get the vaccine.
That number is 1-877-352-3581.
They are taking calls 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.
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