Blog
Share the Ball, Not the Flu
| 02 November 2009
Teammates share almost everything; hard work, drive, team spirit and even sports equipment, however there is one thing no one wants to share with their teammates: the flu. Follow these tips to increase your chances of a flu free sports season: 1.) Avoid sharing personal items such as water bottles, mouth guards, and towels. 2.) Clean sports equipment after each practice or before every game. 3.) Wash your hands pre and post game. 4.) Stay home if you feel ill. Athletic activities could both prolong sickness and spread sickness to teammates. Flu symptoms to watch for include cough, sore throat, head ache, muscle aches, a runny nose, and fever exceeding 102 degrees. Anyone experiencing symptoms of the flu should stay home until flu symptoms resolve and no fever has been present for 24 hours, without the use of medication. As this year’s strain of influenza has primarily affected children and young adults, it is important to take these simple precautions, along with recommended immunizations, to avoid getting or giving the flu.
What is often a common part of team sports; tackling, pinning, and blocking, could result in a serious injury, putting your child out of the game both physically and mentally. While paramedics are often called to treat athletes for obvious concussions, many athletes continue to play after sustaining a hard hit, without knowing the extent of their injuries.
