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District Health Services Director addresses swine flu concerns

District Health Services Director addresses swine flu concerns

Dear Students, Families, and Staff:

As you are aware there have been confirmed cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu) reported across the United States in the last few weeks. Our district works closely with local, state, and national health agencies to investigate any illnesses and/or infections.

H1N1 Flu in people is characterized by fever (100° or more), sore throat, cough, body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. The illness may last up to seven days, but people are considered to be contagious as long as symptoms persist. If you or your child have mild flu-like symptoms, monitor and telephone your physician to consult if necessary.

We want to remind parents and staff of the importance of prevention and how to stay safe.

What You Can Do To Prevent the Spread of H1N1 Virus:

-  Sneeze or cough into a tissue, elbow or sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.

-  Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol based hand sanitizers are also effective.

-  Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs can be spread by exposure to these areas.

-  If you are sick, stay home.

Symptoms of H1N1 Flu:

-  Fever (100° or more), cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue.

Please remember that students should stay home when they have any of the above symptoms.

For more information on the H1N1 Flu please visit any of the following Web sites:

www.cdc.gov/swineflu/mitigation/htm

www.cdc.gov

www.doe.gov

www.doh.wa.gov

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or the health clinician at your student's school.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Douglas, BSN, RN

Director of Health Services

jdouglas@wwps.org

WALLA WALLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS • 364 South Park St. • Walla Walla, WA 99362 • Phone: 509-527-3000 • Fax: 509.529.7713

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