Dear Parents/Guardians,

The purpose of this letter is to inform you about the H1N1 virus commonly referred to as the swine flu. This virus was originally called the swine flu because studies have shown that it has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia. The virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Georgia Department of Education have been providing information to local school districts describing how to best prepare for the virus. We want to make you aware of the proactive measures that the staff at Trion City Schools is taking to battle the H1N1 virus.

  • We have hand sanitizer lotion in each classroom for student use
  • We have disinfectant wipes in each classroom to wipe door handles and desks
  • We have Lysol spray in each classroom for teacher use
  • Teacher’s have been verbalizing to students "precautions" to take for not catching the virus
  • An extra custodian has been hired to continuously wipe down door handles and desks in each school
  • Aerogreen antibacterial foam soap has been placed in all restrooms at each school

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that parents take these everyday measures to protect the health of children:
 
– Teach children to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze. (Turn your head and cough in elbow if without tissue.)
– Teach children to wash their hands often with soap and water. Alcohol based hand cleaners are also effective.
– Teach children to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
– Teach children to avoid close contact with sick people.
– Teach children not to share personal items such as food, drinks, and utensils.
– If your child is sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that the child stay home at least 24 hours after the fever is gone. Do not send children to school if they are sick. Children who are determined to have flu-like symptoms at school will be sent home.
– Stay informed. Health officials will provide additional information as it becomes available. Please visit the website http://cdc.gov/h1n1flu/sick.htm for more information.

The severity of the novel H1N1 influenza now remains mild to moderate. The school system is working diligently to prevent the spread of this virus and will continue to keep your child’s health as our top priority. If you have any further questions regarding this issue, please contact Dr. Phil Williams at 706-734-2363.

Sincerely,

Phil Williams
Superintendent
Trion City Schools