H1N1 Update

August 28, 2009

Dear Parents,

With school now under way, The Bolles School wants to ensure that parents have the latest and most accurate information regarding the Novel H1N1 flu virus (swine flu) as well as the seasonal flu.

As you know, flu can spread easily from person to person. We are taking steps to prevent the spread of flu for as long as possible but we need your help. We have installed hands-free soap and paper towel dispensers in all restrooms and have alcohol based hand sanitizers on all campuses, including the cafeterias, the canteen, and some common areas as well as all lower school classrooms. We are asking you to keep your child home if they are exhibiting any flu-like symptoms including the following: a sudden fever, chills, lack of energy, headaches, muscle aches and pain, dry cough, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain, or a stuffy or runny nose. We urge all families to follow the CDC’s  (Centers for Disease Control) guidelines recommending that people with influenza-like illness remain at home until at least 24 hours after they are free of fever (100 degrees F(37.8 degrees C) without fever reducing medications.  We recommend you have a digital thermometer on hand to monitor your child’s temperature.

First and foremost, prevention is one of the most effective ways to deal with the flu. Basic good hygiene includes the following:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as this spreads germs.
  • Please reinforce the above guidelines with your children.

Although the Novel H1N1 virus is very contagious, it is no longer felt to be as dangerous as it appeared to be when it first emerged in Mexico last spring.  Most people are expected to recover without needing ANY medical care.  If your child has a severe illness or is at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care.

According to the CDC, vaccination is the best tool we have to prevent influenza. As we have in the past, Bolles is offering the vaccine against the seasonal flu for all middle and upper school students in the school’s health centers for $15.00 with parental permission starting next week. Parents of lower school children should see their health care providers for vaccination.

The CDC reports that a Novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public this fall. This vaccine is intended to be used in conjunction with the seasonal flu vaccine. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has made recommendations on who should receive the new H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available. Please check with your health care provider to find out if your child should be vaccinated for seasonal flu and/or the H1N1 flu when it becomes available.

In the meantime, remember that the H1N1 situation is subject to change as the flu season progresses. We will keep you informed and post updated information on the Bolles web site about the latest recommendations and news on H1N1.

For more information, check the following Web sites: