School Nutrition & Health Information

H1N1 Swine Flu Update

October 15, 2009

October 9 Update

Dear Parents:

I would like to give an update, there have been some cases of students and staff with regular influenza reported, but so far no confirmed cases of H1N1 (swine) flu reported. As usual we have had some strep throat,staph infection, pink eye and other usual findings during this 2009-10 school year. I have sent and made available to you information sheets on various conditions in an attempt to minimize their spread.

It is also very important to keep your children’s immunizations up to date, notices have been sent to parents this year letting all the parents know what vaccine(s) their children need. I have enclosed with this update more information from the CDC to help everyone minimize their risk of getting and/or spreading contagious viruses.

Thank you for your assistance in helping to prevent disease.

BAF/10/9/2009

Links

From the Center for Disease Control

Preventing the Spread of Influenza (the Flu) in Child Care Settings: Guidance for Administrators, Care Providers, and Other Staff

What To Do If You Get Sick: 2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu

Good Health Habits and Prevention of Illness

We are sure you are aware of the continued interest regarding the H1N1 (swine flu).

You are probably also aware that the Centers for Disease Control issued modified recommendations to school districts regarding this health concern.

As we look toward the flu season, the priorities will be, as always, to practice good hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette. To maintain good cleaning protocols, to watch for early signs of illness and to keep staff and students who are sick at home.

Please help us keep your students healthy by following these recommendations:

Stay home when sick: Those with flu like symptoms/illness should stay home for at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever or signs of a fever, without the use of fever reducing medicines. They should stay home even if using antiviral drugs.

Reinforce good-hand washing and cough/sneezing procedures: We will continue to teach and emphasize frequent hand washing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing (and use hand sanitizers when not available), covering noses and mouths (with a tissue/shirt sleeve/elbow), and throwing away the tissue after it has been used. We will also remind students not to touch their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

Early treatment of illness: People at high risk for influenza complications who become ill with flu like symptoms/illness should speak with their healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early treatment with antiviral medication is very important for people at high risk. These groups include those who are pregnant, and those who have asthma or diabetes, compromised immune systems or neuromuscular disease.

WE will continue routine cleanings of our campuses, which include those areas touched

Often by many hands, such as doorknobs, water fountains, etc. influenza viruses can survive on hard surfaces up to 24 hours. (Cleaning backpacks and lunch kits daily is also recommended).

Please know that we have been involved in many meetings regarding swine flu and will continue to work with our local health departments to monitor the issue on a local level as needed. Together we can make sure our students are safe, healthy and in school.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care ASAP.

In Children, Warning Signs needing urgent medical attention:

*Fast breathing or trouble breathing

*Bluish or Gray skin color

*Not drinking enough fluids

*Severe or persistent vomiting

*Not waking up or not interacting

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*Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held

*Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, Warning Signs needing urgent medical attention:

*Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath