LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Lexington daycare providers are being extra vigilant about stopping the spread of germs this time of year.
Central Baptist Church Childcare Center Director Jess Osbourne says her facility features small class sizes, a high scope curriculum and a focus on keeping kids healthy.
“We haven't had any flu in our infant room and it's really frightening and that's why we take all the precautions that we do,” said Osbourne.
Those precautions are especially important after health department officials announced that a Lexington baby died from the flu.
Osbourne tells us if a child at Central Baptist shows any signs of illness they are sent home immediately, and teachers use an app to stay in contact with parents throughout the day.
“It could even be 'hey did they nap because they're really tired?' And if they did nap last night, or they'll say ‘no they didn't nap’, maybe there's something going on,” said Osbourne.
Osbourne says kids who are sick have to stay home until 24 hours after they last experienced symptoms.
Her staff also cleans everything thoroughly.
“We also follow a three step cleaning, which is soapy water, water, and then bleach. Then we also wash all of our toys once a day, especially mouth toys. If we see it in a child's mouth we put it up right away,” said Osbourne.
Osbourne hopes by following strict protocols they can keep babies and kids at her center safe and healthy all year long.
Health department officials couldn’t release any other information about the recent death due to privacy laws, but they are encouraging everyone to get the flu shot.
In addition to your doctor office and many local pharmacies, flu shots are available in the department's Public Health Clinic, 650 Newtown Pike, without an appointment: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday. The cost for the shot varies based on insurance. More information is available at 859-288-2483.
