2009 November, Cindy Vogt

I have been asked a lot about the H1N1 virus as well as the Flu. In health class we talk about taking precautions not just because it is Flu season but always.
• The children learn to cover their coughs or sneezes with their elbows.
• They learn the importance of staying away from people who are sick.
• They are taught to wash their hands often with soap and warm water.
• If soap and water are not available, then they should use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• The importance of avoiding the touching of ones eyes, nose and mouth are stressed daily.
• We talk about keeping surfaces like bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children clean by wiping them down with household disinfectants according to directions on the product labels.
• Also the need to throw away tissues and other disposable items used by someone who might not be feeling well is discussed.

We discuss the need to have at least 4 new tooth brushes or as we call them in health class “PLACK SMACKERS” every year.

REMEMBER HAND WASHING IS THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR HEALTH
I would like to share with you some web sites that I think you will find most helpful in answering any questions that you or your children might have.

AFT’s Guide to What You Should Know about H1N1:
http://www.aft.org/topics/h1n1/index.htm

“Preparing for the Flu During the 2009-10 School Year,” A Question and
Answer from the U.S. Department of Education:
www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/emergencyplan/pandemic/guidance/continuity-qa.pdf

H1N1 Updates from State Health Department Web Sites:
www.flu.gov
http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/influenza/h1n1/
www.cdc.gov

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidance for Schools:
www.pandemicflu.gov/professional/school