Local daycare centers battle flu

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - This flu season, it seems like you're hearing more and more coughs and sneezes coming from everyone around you.

It's leaving many parents feeling nervous.

Sara Sanders says she's been lucky about staying free of sickness.

"I just disinfect, Lysol, sterilize, wash hands—we wash our hands a lot, don't we?" Sanders said.

Indiana State Health Department reported 21 people have died from the flu.

Two of them are under 18-years-old.

News 10 checked in with daycare centers around the Wabash Valley to learn how they're fighting back.

King's Kids Day Care in Terre Haute said they've seen five or so children out sick.

"We've had a lot of ear infections; we've had some with the stomach flu; we've had some with strep throat; we've seen them coming in and coming out; we've sent them home," Kings Kids Day Care Center Toddler Teacher Jennifer Holbert said.

Daycare centers wipe down counter tops and cots daily, making sure kids wash their hands and encourage covering their mouths when sneezing or coughing.

"We spray all toys every morning and evening: disinfectant spray.  [We] try to keep our bathrooms, door knobs, handles, everything, clean," Holbert said.

Experts say the Wabash Valley may have already hit our peak of the flu season.