Skip to content
Show submenu for
Health Care Center Newsletter: November 2026

Nurse's Corner: Cold vs. Flu

The cooler temperatures feel crisp and refreshing, although they signal the arrival of colds and flu. Please stay vigilant regarding any symptoms your child may have.

Ask your home provider regarding flu shot recommendations for your child.

Cold vs. Flu

Know the Difference

Antibiotics will not help. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cold: Gradual onset, Stuffy nose, Runny nose, Less severe, Short duration, 1-3 Days of Discomfort

Both: Coughing, Sneezing, Sore throat,  Weakness, Potential Complications

Influenza: Sudden onset, Fever, Headache, Chills, Body ache, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, and Hospitalization

Help STOP the Spread of Cold, Flu, and Antibiotic Resistance

  • Get a flu shot

  • Wash your hands

  • Cover your cough

  • No antibiotics for cold or flu

  • Stay home if you are sick

Healthcare Screenings

The Healthcare Center will be conducting screenings such as vision, scoliosis, and growth/development in grades kindergarten, 1, 3, and 6 as stated in Florida Administration Code 64F-6.003. Further information will be sent home regarding your student’s specific requirement, date of screening, or opportunity to decline.

Diabetes Awareness Month

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is a trusted source of information and resources about diabetes. Their mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of all people affected by this disease.


Medications

An adequate supply of all prescription medications must be available while your student is on campus. Please monitor for needed refills prior to your student returning to school. In some cases, students may need to return home to ensure their safety until their medications become available. Prescription medications must be sent to our pharmacist in the original labeled bottles. Signed physician orders may be faxed directly to our pharmacist at 904-827-2428.

Clearance Forms

A Clearance form is required to return to campus after any Emergency Room visit, surgery, or hospitalization has occurred (including on weekends or school breaks). It may be dropped off at the HCC, faxed to 904-827-2421, or emailed to HCCRecords@fsdbk12.org, but must be received prior to your student's use of transportation or return to school. A student on campus without Clearance must remain in the Health Care Center until it is received. Parents may have to pick up their student from school if Clearance cannot be obtained.

Keep your student home if they exhibit any signs of illness

Students must go home for:

  • Positive Flu or Covid tests

  • Temperature above 100.4

  • Repeated vomiting

  • Illnesses or symptoms require more than 23 hours in TCU

  • Symptoms beyond the scope of HCC

  • Clearance not obtained

  • Critical meds not available

  • EMS 911 calls

We are here to supplement your student's care while at school, but we cannot provide primary care services. Please utilize your PCPs and specialists for routine and follow-up care for concerns beyond the scope of the HCC.

Health Care Center Information

Allied Health Services Administrator: Amy Lane

Medical Director: Michael Soberano, MD

HCC Director: Stacey Gorton  904-827-2420

Pharmacist Consultant: Saundra Taylor 904-827-2426

HCC Phone: 904-827-2410

HCC Fax: 904-827-2421

HCC Email: HCCRecords@fsdbk12.org