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The recent outbreak of H1N1 flu (swine flu) is a matter of concern to all families and schools. While the number of confirmed cases in the Northeastern United States is still relatively limited, it is prudent and helpful to practice several simple measures that can help prevent spreading the flu and therefore keep our students healthy. Alcohol-based hand cleaner dispensers have been placed in the student dining hall, nurse’s office, Dean of Students’ office, weight training room, and main office. In addition, anti-bacterial soap dispensers are in each of our bathrooms throughout the school. While the school has always cleaned appropriate surfaces on a regular basis, we are monitoring that cleaning and disinfection of surfaces used by our school population. We will also continue our traditional practice of closely monitoring school absenteeism. At the opening assemblies of this school year, all of our students were informed of the above information and were also reminded of practical guidelines for reducing the spread of any illness. These include cough etiquette and hand washing hygiene. Most health experts are urging parents to keep children home from school if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms. The Center for Disease Control recommends that such a patient should remain home at least 24 hours after the fever has gone. No student should come to school with flu-like symptoms and a fever. The Pennsylvania Department of Health has a number of practical steps that we can all take as precautionary measures at this time. This information is provided at the Department’s web site: http://www.dsf.health.state.pa.us/health/site/default.asp. The site contains suggestions for parents and schools. At that site, one may also find information and key facts about the flu, as well as practical guidelines for reducing the spread of any illness (cough etiquette and hand washing hygiene). In addition, there is helpful information contained at the following website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm.
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