H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Info

H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) – Notice for Parents and Caregivers

Kia ora and Greetings, 25 June 2009

As you are aware, the rules and recommendations about how the College should be responding to the H1N1 influenza (swine flu) are changing as the situation in NZ changes.

This is the latest information that we have on the issue.

We are aware that the H1N1 flu is moderate but highly infectious. So our aim is to minimise the risks to students and staff, and to slow down the spread of the H1N1 flu should (or when) our students and staff start to get it.

Our advice is now:

• If your child is unwell with the flu (e.g. has flu symptoms) please keep them away from College, until 24 hours after their symptoms have completely passed.
• If you suspect that your child has been in recent contact with someone who has the H1N1 flu you might want to take the precautionary measure of keeping them home for a day of two to see if they also start to show symptoms. But this is your choice (e.g. the adults’ choice – not your child’s!)
• Otherwise your child should be at College.

If your child has a particular medical condition or is more susceptible to infection you should avoid contact with people who have symptoms, and discuss this with your child’s doctor.

We are also increasing our focus on personal hygiene and inter-personal health. This will include encouraging our students and staff to be more aware of hand washing, keeping hands away from mouth/nose/eyes, and better ways of coughing or sneezing. Belo this notice is a copy of a World Health Organisation (WHO) poster that we are using within the College.

You can also get more information through the Healthline 0800 611 116 or on the Ministry of Health website http://www.moh.govt.nz/influenza-a-h1n1

Cheers,

Grant McMillan, Principal