Q:  What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
A: The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

Q:   What steps has the District taken to contain the spread of this?

A:  The District has followed each of the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) which can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/schools/toolkit/actionsteps.htm .  Beyond that, we have been in frequent contact with the Department of Health and continue to sanitize student areas as frequently as we are able. 

Q:  What if my child has to be sent home due to presenting ILI and I cannot get there right away?

A:  We understand that child care is an issue for many parents and that some may not have a way to get to school immediately to pick their child up.  While we encourage you or a family member/caregiver to get here as soon as possible, we will have an area designated for children who have to wait here.  These "isolation areas" will allow us to maintain the 6 foot distance between children and staff members that the CDC recommends.  We may have your child wear a mask in this area so as to prevent further spread of the virus.  The supervising staff member may also wear a mask for their own protection.

Q:   My child has been fever free for 24 hours but still has a cough.  Should I send them back to school?

A:  While it is always best to consult your physician on such matters, you know your child best.  If they are still a bit lethargic or showing other symptoms of ILI, consider whether they will be ready to learn if back in school or if one more day of rest might be beneficial.

Q: Will the school close if any students become will with H1N1?

A: The CDC and the Department of Health and epidemiologist do not recommend school closure as it has been shown as an ineffective method for slowing the spread of the virus once children have been exposed.  

Q:  I want my child in school, but I want to protect them.  Should they wear a mask?

A:  The CDC has specific recommendations on the use of facemasks and unless your child has symptoms of ILI, wearing a mask is not recommended and may actually be counterproductive.  Medical experts suggest that having the mask on may create a false sense of security and that the first time the student reaches through the mask to itch, etc., its effectiveness is compromised.

Q: Besides hand washing and covering their mouth when they sneeze or cough, what can I do to help my child stay protected?

A:  Keeping their hands away from their mouth, nose and eyes has shown to have a positive effect on limiting the spread of germs.  According to the DOH, one study showed that children who followed this suggestion decreased the likelihood of getting the virus by 25%.

  Q: Where can I find more specific information on this?

A:  Parents of students who are presenting ILI are encouraged to see their physician.  Further information is available at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swineflu/key_facts.htm