H1N1 Flu Virus
The Province of BC is preparing for a possible resurgence of the H1N1 flu virus in B.C. schools this fall with a pandemic plan that includes new information and materials for parents, students and schools.
The Province anticipates the number of cases and symptoms of the H1N1 virus will be similar to a regular influenza season. At this time, it is not anticipated that individual, community-wide or province-wide school closures will be necessary.
The Province, the Office of the Provincial Health Officer and the school district have developed guidelines for the coming school year that will complement district pandemic plans. "We don't expect that individual school closures, community-wide closures or province-wide closures will be useful in controlling the spread and impact of the H1N1 flu virus," said Provincial Health Officer Dr.Perry Kendall. "Closures early last spring were initiated out of an abundance of caution because we had very little information on the novel flu virus at that time. It has
since become apparent that the disease caused by this virus is generally mild and does not warrant such severe measures."
Dr. Kendall is encouraging parents and schools to continue to take practical steps to prevent the spread of the illness:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve;
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand gels are also effective as long as hands are not visibly dirty;
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people;
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way;
• If you get sick with mild illness, stay home and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them;
• If your symptoms become more severe contact your health care provider.
Information for both parents and students is provided on the Province's H1N1 website: www.gov.bc.ca/h1n1
If you or someone in your household becomes ill, and you have questions, you can speak to a nurse by calling the HeathLinkBC line at 8-1-1
Helpful links and documents:
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