October 2009

Dear Parents:

H1N1 has arrived in virtually every corner of Alberta. Here in Battle River School Division, we have been tracking the number of students who experience “influenza-like illness”, at the request of Alberta Health Services. We now have confirmed reports of students in various schools who have tested positive for the H1N1 virus.

Battle River School Division staff members are maintaining close contact with Alberta Health Services, to ensure we have the most current information about how to deal with this outbreak. We have been given no indication that school closures are being planned or that there is any need to cancel activities at schools.

While none of us can avoid being exposed to H1N1, by working together we can limit the risks.
Our schools will continue to encourage frequent hand washing; proper “cough etiquette”; and not sharing water bottles or other items. You can help by reinforcing these messages at home. You may also choose to look into the new vaccine, which is now available in some areas.

If your children have been exposed to H1N1, there is no need to isolate them. However If your children are showing symptoms of H1N1 (or other illnesses) we ask you to keep them away from school. According to Alberta Health Services, the most common symptoms are the sudden onset of coughing, sneezing or upper respiratory congestion; fever and / or headache and heavy fatigue. Some people are also experiencing nausea but that is less common.

Alberta Health Services tells us that for most people the symptoms are relatively mild. They do not need medical attention and will recover after a few days of resting at home.

Alberta Health Services also advises that people who are pregnant and those with asthma, diabetes or other underlying health conditions are vulnerable to serious complications from the H1N1 virus. If you have questions about your child’s symptoms, whether or not they should see a doctor or how long they should remain at home, please contact the HealthLink phone line toll-free at 1-866-408-5465. The nurse who answers can help determine the right actions in your particular circumstance.

For more information on influenza pandemic and prevention, visit the following websites:

Alberta Health Services -- www.albertahealthservices.ca

Public Health Guidance for Child Care Programs and Schools (K to 12) re: prevention and management of influenza-like-illness (ILI), including the pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza virus -- http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/interim-provisoires0819-eng.php

http://www.fightflu.ca/tools-outils-eng.html