Schools Ready for H1N1

Learning to keep the H1N1 (human swine influenza) and other flu viruses in check will be one of the key lessons for students, teachers and principals returning to school this week.

Schools and school boards across Nova Scotia have received updated information that will help prevent infection, recognize the symptoms of the virus, and the importance of establishing strong communications with public health officials and parents.

H1N1 school information kits, prepared by the Department of Health Promotion and Protection, also offers advice to schools about what to do when children and staff become sick while at school.

"The information materials we are providing schools will raise awareness and provide important tips that will help families and school staff reduce the risk of infection," said Health Promotion and Protection Minister Maureen MacDonald.

Schools are being asked to monitor and report to public health officials unusual levels of absenteeism among staff and students and to ensure effective measures are in place to prevent infection. Staff and students are encouraged to practice proper hand hygiene, as well as cough and sneeze etiquette, while schools are advised to increase environmental cleaning of computer key boards, desk tops, telephones, sports equipment, school bus handrails and doorknobs.

"School boards have developed, or are in the process of finalizing, their pandemic plans," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "Everyone has worked very hard to ensure that we are as prepared as we can be for this. We must continue to work together and be vigilant to make sure we minimize the impact of this virus on our public schools and post-secondary institutions.

"Keeping students and staff safe and healthy is our highest priority."

Nova Scotians are encouraged to take the following precautionary measures to prevent illness:

• Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after a sneeze or cough. When soap and water are not handy, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are an acceptable alternative.

• Cough and sneeze into elbow or sleeve.

• If using tissues, dispose of them appropriately and wash hands.

• Limit touching eyes, nose and mouth.

• Stay home if sick and limit unnecessary contact with others. Return to school and work when feeling well and able to fully participate in normal everyday activities.

• If concerned that medical advice or care is needed, contact HealthLink 811. Like any illness, should symptoms worsen, visit a doctor or walk-in clinic.

Schools are also asked to consider educating staff on proper cleaning techniques, including on buses. They should also provide teachers and administrators with information on recognizing flu symptoms and when to isolate students who become sick in school.

An information tool kit for universities and colleges, as well as private career colleges, has also been developed and sent to post-secondary institutions. Private schools are also receiving the information packages.

For more information on H1N1 (human swine influenza) and advice on how to keep families safe, visit www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/cdpc/h1n1-influenza.asp . The H1N1 information kits for public schools and post-secondary institutions can also be viewed at www.ednet.ns.ca/h1n1_toolkits.shtml .