H1N1 information sent to FCPS parents

The following letter concerning the H1N1 influenza was sent to all parents of Falls City Public Schools children:

Dear Parents,

This letter is to inform you about H1N1 influenza. Although, to date, only mild illness has occurred in the state of Nebraska as well as the United States, we realize that many people share similar concerns.

We are working very closely with the state and local health departments and at this time they have advised us that students can continue to come to school, as long as they are not sick and do not think they have influenza symptoms. Influenza symptoms include: fever (over 100 degrees F.), feverishness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose. Additional symptoms may be experienced with H1N1-influenza, including muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

If a student would be sent to the office, with a fever (over 100 degrees F.), they will be put in a separate room and have a mask put on them and their parents will be notified to come and get them. They should not return to school until they are fever free for 24 hours with no medication. At the time they return to school, we will check their temperature, As long as the student has no temperature they can remain in school. We will check them again in 4-6 hours. Again, if no temperature is found, they will remain in school. However, if a temperature is found, they will immediately be sent home.

Influenza of all kinds spreads easily. If you suspect your child is getting influenza, it is important that he/she does not attend school or go anywhere else—-such as group childcare, sporting events or where other people would be exposed to influenza germs. It is also 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.

If we all practice good hygiene, health officials believe we can limit the spread of H1N1 flu in our schools at this time. We have consulted with local health officials regarding best cleaning practices for infection control in our buildings.

Please stay informed by paying attention to media reports. You may also get information at www.cdc.gov. If any other information regarding this matter comes forth, we will pass it along to you.

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