Superintendent's Letter May 29, 2009 - Influenza H1N1 Update
May 29, 2009
Dear Parents and Guardians,
In light of recent media attention related to Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1) or influenza-like illness and to keep everyone in the school community informed, we are providing an update about the incidence of influenza A and influenza-like illness in the Needham Public Schools. We want to inform you that there are students and staff who are experiencing symptoms of influenza in the district.
We learned today that there is one Newman School student who was recently diagnosed with a confirmed case of Swine- Origin Influenza A (H1N1). The student has been out of school since being symptomatic and is recovering well without complication. As with seasonal flu, it should be assumed that influenza-like illness is currently in the community and being exposed is always a possibility.
The Needham Public Schools are being vigilant in monitoring student and staff health and enhancing infection control. To that end we are:
- Working directly with the Needham Health Department and following the most up to date guidelines for schools by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
- Reinforcing with students and staff about germ prevention through the practice of good hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, and proper cough etiquette
- Encouraging routine cleaning of classroom surfaces likely to be contaminated
- Dismissing students and staff who are ill with influenza-like illness are from school and advising them to remain home for at least 7 days even if symptoms resolve sooner, and those who are still sick after 7 days, are to stay home until at least 24 hours after they have completely recovered
- Monitoring the patterns of student and staff absence and dismissals due to illness in all grades
We ask that all families please review and follow guidelines issued by the MDPH to help you monitor the health of your child and make informed decisions about when it is appropriate to keep them home from school. To minimize the transmission of flu, we reiterate that everyone, children and adults, should protect themselves by
- Washing hands frequently
- Keeping hands away from your mouth, nose, and eyes
- Staying away from people who are sick
- Covering a cough and sneeze
- Keeping your child home if he/she is sick.
Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways, thus it is impossible to know whether this one will decrease or grow in the coming weeks. The school nurses and the Needham Health Department are available for any questions. For further updates and information please check the NPS Health Services website.
Thank you for your understanding and assistance as we respond to the outbreak of influenza illness and balance health concerns with the educational mission of our schools.
Sincerely
Daniel E. Gutekanst,
Superintendent of School