Update 10/26/2009

Our District, like those across the state, continues to see increase in the number of reports of students with influenza-like illness. District officials have remained in close contact with outside health professionals.

When it comes to the highly publicized H1N1 Influenza, we thankfully know more about it than we did last spring. In many ways, H1N1 acts much like other types of influenza. For that reason, you will see in future communications that when it comes to preparedness, the District will refer to influenza preparedness unless there is reason to refer specifically about the H1N1 virus. As is the case at other times, we can’t predict what this influenza season will look like. H1N1 is still relatively new and may change, however, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control is similar to the guidance given for other types of influenza:

• Handwashing
• Properly covering your cough
• Routine cleaning and sanitation of buildings
• Staying at home when you are sick
• Early treatment for individuals at high risk of influenza-related complications

The CDC recommends that people with influenza-like illness stay away from others for at least 24-hours after their fever has diminished. Children under 5-years-old who are experiencing symptoms of influenza-like illness should stay home for at least seven days after there is no longer a fever or signs of a fever . There also is an emphasis on getting the recommended flu shots as they become available.

The Minnesota Department of Health has a phone line available to answer questions about influenza symptoms and care.  Minnesotans with flu symptoms can call toll-free line at 1-866-259-4655

If your child needs medical attention or you need help finding a health care provider, please contact Neighborhood Health Care Network at 651-489-4899.

Further information regarding H1N1 is available at the MDH website: www.mdhflu.com

Please check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) website and/or the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) website for updates and revised recommendations.

In addition, the publication Talking to Children About Swine Flu (H1N1): A Parent Resource, developed by the Nation Association of School Nurses and others is available here.

At our schools, administrators and engineers are following normal cleaning and sanitizing procedures, which includes checking restrooms regularly to make sure that they are stocked with fresh soap and hand towels.

SPPS Reporting to the State

In order to better track the characteristics and patterns of the H1N1 influenza, the Minnesota Department of Health has asked schools to report when at least one of two thresholds are met in regards to students experiencing symptoms of influenza-like illness. If there are at least three students in the same classroom with symptoms of influenza-like illness or if five per cent of the school's student population is absent, schools and programs are reporting to the state. In Saint Paul Public Schools, that will also call for communications to the school's families that will include letters, a phone message and posting the information to the school's website.