District changes practice on H1N1 notification
The outbreak of H1N1 flu locally has been the cause of much concern and discussion. The Wichita Public Schools has had a few cases confirmed to be H1N1, but for every confirmed case, there are dozens not confirmed. There are schools across the district with students who have been ill and/or sent home with flu-like symptoms. Some schools have had more students out ill than others.
The Wichita Public Schools’ past practice was to only notify parents if we were notified of a confirmed case by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Because it appears the H1N1 virus is widespread throughout the community, and because the health and safety precautions are the same regardless of the type of flu a student may have, the district will no longer notify parents when there is a confirmed case. Click here to read the message Superintendent John Allison to employees.
This week, each school will send a general ParentLink message informing parents of the precautions they must take to care for their children regardless of whether cases have been confirmed or not, as well as letting parents know that we will no longer notify in the event of a confirmed case.
Every school will host a free H1N1 vaccination clinic for students later this semester. The schools will provide more information on the clinics when the district receives specifics from the Sedgwick County Health Department.
What You Can Do To Prevent the Spread of H1N1
· Sneeze or cough into a tissue, elbow or sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
· If you are sick, stay home until fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
Symptoms of H1N1
· Fever of 100.4, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue. The illness may last up to seven days, but people are considered to be contagious as long as a fever is present.
Please remember that students should stay home when they have any of the following symptoms: fever (temperature 100.4 degrees or higher), vomiting or diarrhea, blistery rash, heavy nasal congestion or frequent cough and/or if your child has been diagnosed with a contagious disease. If your child shows any of these symptoms, please contact your school’s nurse.
Regular updates on the H1N1 virus will be in the Express and posted on the Wichita Public Schools' website.
If you have any questions, please call Health Services at 973-4475 or the Sedgwick County Health Department at 660-9370.
October 6, 2009