Posted on Aug 27, 2009

STM H1N1 (swine) Flu Statement

The Center for Disease Control and the Illinois Department of Public Health are acting quickly to prevent a nation-wide H1N1 Flu Pandemic.

Public Health officials want people to protect themselves against pandemic flu by the following the procedures below:

• The flu is spread by “person to person” contact. Keep children who are sick at home. Do not send them to school. Children should be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school.
• Teach your child to wash their hands throughout the day with plenty of soap and water for minimum of 20 seconds each time. Alcohol-based cleaners may also be used.
• Teach your children to cover their nose with a tissue when they sneeze or cough. They should also cough into their elbow.
• People who are sick should stay home from work or school and avoid people until they are better.

School personnel will monitor closely the daily attendance patterns. It is important that parents report all absences promptly and accurately. If you child demonstrates flu-like symptoms including fever, cough, and sore throat you should contact your physician and keep your child home until they have been seen by the doctor. Students should not return to school until at least 24 hours after they are symptom free.

If a case of H1N1 flu is reported in the school district, we will be in contact with the Illinois and Champaign County Departments of Public Health to determine an appropriate course of action. As we receive further information we will communicate with you through e-mails and SchoolReach calls.

If you have questions concerning this matter, please contact your healthcare provider or Champaign County Department of Public Health. You can also visit the following websites for additional information:

Center for Disease Control)
Illinois Dept. of Public Health - 217-782-4977
Federal Government information