Influenza/H1N1 (Swine Flu) School Update

October 14, 2009
Parents,
Our attendance in all school buildings are staying up and hope we have seen the last of all illnesses including Influenza.  As we all know, this is wishful thinking.  Unfortunately, not only do we have Influenza to worry about, but all of the typical winter illnesses are here to stay for the next few months.  We have seen students with strep throat, bronchitis, stomach viruses and head colds. Hopefully, the first good frost will help take care of any allergy issues.  Continue to encourage your family to practice good handwashing, cough/sneeze etiquette and stay home when ill. Remind your child to not share drinks or food with other students. 
Please be prepared in case your child does become ill and has to be out of school for several days, up to a week or more.  Have a plan in mind on who will provide care for your child while they are home ill or if you need to take off work in order to stay home.  Planning ahead will decrease your stress in the event your child does become ill.
I encourage you to discuss with your personal physician about the H1N1 vaccination to see if it is right for you and your family. H1N1 has hit children and young adults harder than the traditional seasonal flu does each year.  Please review the list of resources to the right and gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision.
Any questions, please feel free to call me at my office, 732-3650 x5111, or your building school nurse.
Nurse Botkin
District Head Nurse