Swine flu information from the Superintendent, Dr. Terry Grier

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As you have likely heard, swine flu has been detected in four San Diego County residents, three of them children. All of the individuals had mild symptoms. The County Office of Public Health Services has not declared a pandemic flu emergency.

At this time, County Public Health is telling us that students who are not ill can safely come to school and schools will remain open. We will continue to closely monitor our schools and children, respond to any public health announcements and rapidly provide information through our website and automated phone system.

We ask for your help in paying attention to your health and the health of our students. The symptoms of the swine influenza virus infection are similar to those of seasonal influenza. These symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting. The annual flu shot does not offer protection against this particular virus.

Here are some ways you can protect yourself and your family:

• Practice good hand hygiene—wash your hands properly and often.
• Cover your cough—with a tissue, or sneeze into your sleeve.
• Children and adults who are sick should stay home from school or work and stay away from other people who are sick.

Our teachers and staff will also be stressing the importance of frequent hand washing and “sneezing in your sleeve.” If flu symptoms occur at school, students will not be allowed to remain at school.

For more information, please contact the San Diego County Swine Flu Hotline at (858) 715-2250. If you have a particular concern about swine flu, please call your personal physician or the County Public Health Services at (619) 515-6520. Information is also posted on our website at http://www.sandi.net.

I want to reassure you that we are doing everything necessary to protect the health and safety of our students and staff.

Sincerely,

Dr. Terry Grier
Superintendent

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