Parents:

Many of you have heard news reports about novel influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu.  While health care professionals and the public are still learning about this new virus, it has become clear that children and teens are among those most at risk of catching it.  Protecting your child’s health and safety are top concerns, and working as a team is the most effective approach.  In partnership with the Northwest Public Health Department and the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, we want to share information that will help in protecting families and the community. 

It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of illness in our childcare centers and schools – not just novel H1N1, but any kind of virus.  Below are everyday actions you and your children can take to stay healthy.

1. Do not send your child to school with a fever.  Keep children with flu-like illness at home.  (Contact your child’s health care professional for information on symptoms of seasonal flu and the novel H1N1 virus).

2. Sick children should not return to school or participate in any activities putting them in contact with others until their fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

3. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze (using your sleeve is good).  If you use a tissue to cover coughs or sneezes, throw it in the trash after you use it.  Teach your children to do the same.

4. Avoid giving children aspirin and products that contain aspirin.  Aspirin has been linked to Reyes Syndrome.

5. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.  Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Be a good role model for your children.

6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Germs spread that way.

7. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

8. Have your family – including your children – vaccinated against regular seasonal flu just as soon as possible.

9. When the novel H1N1 vaccine becomes available, be sure to have your child and yourself vaccinated.

The Cartersville City School System will continually update this website as new information is released.  Be sure to stay informed.  You can also contact your local county health department or go online to http://www.nwgapublichealth.org/, www.cdc.gov or www.flu.gov.

Sincerely,

Kathy Dixon-Anderson
Director Special Programs