June 18, 2009

Dear Parents/Guardians:

We are writing to inform you that there is a confirmed case of H1N1 influenza (swine flu) at Latham Ridge Elementary School.

If we all practice good hygiene, health officials believe we can limit the spread of flu in our schools at this time.

State and local health departments have advised us that students can continue to come to school, as long as they are not sick and do not think they have flu symptoms. Most U.S. cases have not been severe and are comparable in severity to seasonal influenza. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that school closure is not advised for a suspected or confirmed case of novel influenza A (H1N1) and, in general, is not advised unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school’s ability to function. However, CDC and local and state health officials will continue to closely monitor the severity and spread of outbreak.

CDC also recommends that students, faculty or staff with flu-like symptoms should stay home and not attend school for at least 7 days even if symptoms resolve sooner. Flu-like symptoms include: fever (over 100 degrees F.), feverishness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose. Additional symptoms may be experienced with swine flu, including muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

• It is important to teach your children how to reduce their risk of getting the flu and protect others from infection.

• Teach your children to wash their hands often. Washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is ideal (that’s about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).

• Teach your children the proper use of hand sanitizer. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes all work well, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol. Hand wipes must be disposed of properly. Always read and follow label instructions when using hand sanitizer.

• Teach your children to keep their hands away from their face and avoid touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

• Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of their elbow. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve—not your hands!

• Help your children to learn these healthy habits by setting a good example and always doing them yourself.

Our utmost concern is your child’s welfare and we are taking all precautions to ensure their safety by providing you with this information.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our children and our schools healthy.

Sincerely,

Randy A. Ehrenberg Superintendent of Schools