Worried about H1N1 Flu?

by Dr. Heerboth

We receive a lot of information about H1N1 flu each week. During the past year we have also received guidance for school districts from a variety of credible sources. We've heard from the federal government, the Communicable Disease Centers, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the McDonough County Health Department. Some of the information we received in the past has been changed as these organizations receive new information.

I am going to use this blog format to keep the West Prairie community updated with what we know about the disease. I will post the most up-to-date information about the epidemic as we receive it, and will post links to the organizations that provide us with guidance.

Several of these agencies published brochures with a lot of information about H1N1 flu, including information about immunization and prevention.

Our principals, teachers, and custodians are paying attention to hygiene in our buildings. We are asking the children to do the same. They should wash their hands regularly and thoroughly. They should use a tissue or cough into their sleeves. We are installing additional hand sanitizers for staff and student use as well.

October 5, 2009: Right now, we are not seeing student absenteeism above normal levels.