The Oshkosh Health Services Division monitors the schools’ health surveillance program and has noticed an increase in influenza-like illness activity at many schools including confirmed cases of H1N1.
Signs of seasonal flu or H1N1 flu (formerly known as swine flu) include:
¨ fever
¨ cough
¨ sore throat
¨ runny or stuffy nose
¨ body aches
¨ headache
¨ chills
¨ fatigue
Some people may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
Parents and guardians need to keep their children home when they are sick or have any flu-like illness for at least 24 hours after they no longer have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing medicines. This directive also applies to school staff.
Other ways to stay healthy and to protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu include:
¨ Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
¨ Stay away from people who are sick.
¨ Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing (or use your shirt sleeve or elbow, if no tissue is available.)
¨ Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
¨ Frequently wash common surfaces, such as tabletops and door knobs.
¨ Eat nutritious meals, get plenty of rest, and do not smoke.
If you have a medically fragile child, the school is requesting you update your child’s Plan of Care as soon as possible. A medically fragile child is defined as a child that uses an oxygen tank, has trouble moving, is fed through a tube, needs suctioning, or is on a ventilator. These medically fragile children also include those with chronic lung disease, severe cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, immunodeficiency, or problems with their metabolism. Medically fragile family members also need to take special precautions.
Your cooperation can help to reduce the spread of the H1N1 virus. For additional information on the H1N1 flu you may call 2-1-1 or go to www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov.
You may also contact Oshkosh Health Services Division at 920-236-5030 if you have any questions.
