H1N1 Flu Update

The Three C's

October 02, 2009 by Teresa Schappaugh

"Clean hands,  Cover cough,  Containment when sick"

Olympia CUSD 16 is closely monitoring the nationwide spread of the H1N1 flu. We would ask for everyone’s assistance in preparing to focus on prevention. By teaching your family members and especially school children the “Three C’s” we hope to promote the importance of being aware of certain things that may help control the spread of this virus.

The “Three C’s” are:  Clean hands, Covering coughs, and Containment at home when sick. 

The Olympia Operations and Maintenance crew and the Technology team are taking extra measures with cleaning and sanitizing frequently touched surfaces including desktops and computers.

We are asking parents to partner with us in keeping children healthy through a few practical ways:

Practice good hygiene -  Washing  hands often with soap and water and sneezing/coughing into your elbow.

Know the signs and symptoms of the flu – Fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and feeling tired.  Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea.

Keep sick children at home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone (without fever reducing medication).  Please remember to call the school to report the illness.

Talk with your healthcare provider if your child’s symptoms become severe and if your child is at a higher risk of complications.

Plan for childcare at home if your child gets sick.

Talk to your physician about getting your family vaccinated for seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu when the vaccines are available.

The district asks parents to remain calm if the H1N1 flu becomes widespread.  For more information, visit www.flu.gov , www.idph.state.il.us or call 1-800-CDC-INFO for the most current information about the flu.  We will be monitoring attendance rates for students and staff to provide a baseline that will help us determine the extent of a possible outbreak and the impact of any such outbreak.

The health and safety of our students and staff are our primary goal.