May 6th H1N1 update from the Superintendent

May 6, 2009

Dear Parents, Staff and Community Members:

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has changed its earlier position and is now recommending that schools remain open if a case of the H1N1 Novel Virus (previously referred to as swine influenza) is found in a person in a school building. New Prague Area Schools will follow the MDH's recommendations. Our district, with MDH consultation, may choose to close if circumstances warrant it.

MDH notes that this strain of virus is not proving to be more deadly than the regular seasonal influenza. There are currently no confirmed cases of H1N1 Novel Influenza in Scott County. It is expected that there will not be testing for H1N1 unless someone is hospitalized.

At this time, students and staff who experience influenza-like symptoms are asked to stay home for seven (7) calendar days even if their symptoms resolve sooner. If after seven (7) days a student or staff continues to have symptoms, the individual should stay home until 24 hours after symptoms resolve.

Influenza-like symptoms include a fever above 100 degrees fahrenheit and at least one of the following:

• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose

It is expected that most people will recover without needing medical care. If an individual is ill, the illness may last a week or longer. The ill person should stay home and avoid contact with others, except to seek medical care. It is recommended that you talk with your health care provider for further directions.

The MDH has asked our district to report students or staff with influenza-like symptoms. When reporting an illness absence, please leave a message on the attendance line clearly stating the symptoms your child is experiencing. If you are taking your child to your health care provider, please call the nurse/health assistant at your child's school and provide any test results.

Additional recommendation from the MDH:

• Parent/caregivers should assess family members each morning for influenza-like illness.
• Ill students should not attend extracurricular activities, community activities or child care.

Remember to cover your cough, increase hand washing, stay home if you are ill, ensure your child stays at home if he/she is ill, stay away from others who are ill, and practice good health habits, such as eating health, sleeping well and staying active.

We will keep everyone in our schools informed and provide additional information when needed. Information is also available on our district Website at www.np.k12,mn.us. If you have any questions, please call our Director of Health Services, Cheryl Malecha at 952-758-1760.

Sincerely

Craig Menozzi
Superintendent
New Prague Area Schools