2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) Update

Dear W-G Families & Friends,

I am writing today to inform you that the District has received the first reports of confirmed cases of the H1N1 Flu throughout both Woodward and Granger. With this announcement the intent is not to spread panic or fear about this highly publicized influenza but more to inform you of the manner in which all public entities in the state have been instructed to handle the situation.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is focused on early detection and systematic suggestions for dealing with the rapid spread of the flu. These recommendations are outlined below.

1) Any child that is experiencing any or all of the following symptoms is encouraged to remain at home until such time that the symptoms have passed. In addition it is recommended that an additional 24-hours of symptom free conditions elapse before returning to school or a public setting. The flu symptoms are outlined below.

(fever, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, vomiting, diarrhea, aches, chills and/or fatigue) Note: not everyone with the flu will have a fever

2) Remember the three C's:
• Clean your hands frequently;
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve; and
• Contain germs by staying home when ill.
•
3) Iowa Public Health recommends that children under 2, adults that are 65 and
older, pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing medical illnesses are at the highest risk for flu complications and should consult a health care physician immediately if symptoms persist.

At this time there are no concrete guidelines on what to do if the total absent student population reaches a certain percentage or level. The decision will be made locally as to continue with and/or cancel school in the event that the outbreak warrants.

Prevention, detection and the three C’s are the tools put forth to guide schools in dealing with this issue. If you have any further questions regarding the H1N1 Flu and or the contents of this article please refer to the following website http://www.idph.state.ia.us/ or contact the District office at (515)438-4263.

Respectfully,

Jody A. Gray

Jody Gray, Superintendent
Woodward-Granger Community Schools