H1N1 Flu
Contact Information
District Nurse:
Christine Heinlein
360.802.7505
Guidelines
Updated September 15, 2009:
Click here for Spanish version of the text below.
Parents and Students:
Back to school, falling leaves and cooler weather is followed closely by flu season. The media reminds us often that we have a new virus called the swine flu(H1N1) which has folks particularly concerned. Keep in mind, the H1N1 looks and acts very much like any other flu. The real difference is our lack of immunity to it in the human race. Therefore, reducing exposure is the key to protecting ourselves and our families. In anticipation of enjoying a happy and healthy school year here in Enumclaw, it is appropriate to provide a flu season refresher, including preventative measures for home and school, district policy and how a potential outbreak would be handled.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is true with any flu, including the H1N1. Following these few simple, yet invaluable, preventative measures can keep our community strong and healthy.
Healthy Habit #1: Frequent and thorough hand-washing with soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizers.
Healthy Habit #2: Cover coughs and sneezes with fresh Kleenex or the fabric of your sleeve (like the crook of your elbow).
Healthy Habit #3: If you or your child becomes ill, stay home to prevent the spread of the illness to others. Swine flu and other seasonal flu viruses are all contagious and very similar in symptoms. Smart planning would include alternate child care plans and sick day activities/supplies just in case your child gets ill.
As in past years, we will continue to use proven strategies to promote and maintain student health. Enumclaw School District Health Policy, as well as the CDC recommendations requires the following action:
- Individuals with influenza-like illness remain at home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100°F [37.8°C), or signs of a fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
- If students become ill at school, they will be required to go home and will remain in the health room until pick up can be arranged.
Most cases of any influenza virus, including H1N1 will NOT require treatment by a physician.
However, individuals with conditions that might otherwise compromise their health (diabetes, respiratory conditions, medically fragile, pregnancy, etc.) are recommended to contact a health care provider in planning for early and appropriate medical care.
For the purposes of emergency preparedness, the Enumclaw School District continues to work closely with local and state agencies in planning for outbreak possibilities. The School District website will be routinely updated to provide you with the most current information available.
Previous updates:
May 5, 2009
Superintendent's Letter to Parents Superintendent's Letter to Parents - Spanish