More swine Flu reported in Worcester Schools

As previously reported the Swine Flu is here. 2 more cases found and must now be of concern.



Today the Pocomoke schools sent letters home to parents and guardians. If you did not receive the letter it states as follows.

The Board of Education of Worcester County

Dear Parents and Guardians:

The Worcester County Health Department has confirmed that four Worcester County Public School students have now tested positive for the H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu). The students attend various schools in our school system. Students diagnosed with the H1N1 Flu are being treated by a physician and will return to school when cleared by their physician. It is anticipated that the number of causes of H1N1 will continue to increase in out community.

According to health officials, the symptoms of this new strain of flu appear to be similar to the seasonal flu. Like the seasonal flu, the H1N1 Flu can be transmitted from person to person. Symptoms include a fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, and fatigue.

We continue to follow the guidelines and recommendations of the Worcester County Health Department (WCHD) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention which include heightening prevention practices, since preventing infection remains the number-one defense against transmitting the flu to others.

Prevention best-practices include:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaner are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.

According to the WCHD, "If individuals are sick or experiencing flu-like symptoms, they should stay home from work or school and limit close contact with others for at least 7 days after symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. If symptoms get worse, individuals should contact their primary care physician or provider for treatment. parents can help to slow the spread of this virus by keeping sick students at home for the recommended period of time".

For more information on the H1N1 Flu, you may contact the WCHD Information Line at 410-632-4321 or visit the WCHD Website at www.worcesterhealth.org If you have any questions or concerns, you may also contact me at 410-632-5021 or your child's principal at school.

The health and safety of our students are always a priority.

Sincerely

John M. Andes

Superintendent of Schools