Carson Middle School is holding a flu immunization clinic for students on Friday from 2:30-5 p.m. The clinic is being administered by the school district, the Public Health Department and Carson Tahoe Medical Center, and all students getting shots must be accompanied by parents.
There is a $15 charge per shot, although parents unable to pay will not be turned away. While the clinic is intended for students at Carson Middle, those from other schools accompanied by parents will not be turned away.
It takes several days for a flu shot to provide immunity against the virus.
There is no flu outbreak in Carson City schools, but the District is urging parents to take precautionary measures following the death of a Carson Middle School 6th grader this week. The cause of death is believed to be related to Influenza B.
School Superintendent Mary Pierczynski says parents can protect their children by taking precautions, chief among them educating their children on the importance of washing their hands. If children complain of flu-like symptoms, parents should take them to a doctor.
The district will also be sending brochures home with children tonight and Friday so that parents can be better informed.
Pierczynski said there have not been abnormal levels of absenteeism in schools due to sickness.