Maria Lewis sent out this note from School Health Coordinator Sally Dobbins…

Dear CSD Families,

Although CDC has issued a public health emergency related to swine flu, Georgia has no confirmed cases. Symptoms of swine flu are similar to seasonal flu: sore throat, body aches, fever, headache, cough and fatigue. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting.  Swine flu, like seasonal flu, is spread mainly person to person through coughing or sneezing.   As with any flu or infectious disease prevention is critical.
How to Prevent Infection with the Swine Flu and other Viruses:
– Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. After you cough or sneeze, also wash your hands. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be effective, if you don’t have access to soap and water.
– If you or your child have flu symptoms, stay home from work/school and stay away from other people. See your medical provider quickly who may run tests to determine if you have swine flu or some other infection and can treat appropriately.  If your child is diagnosed with swine flu please let your school know and follow health care providers instructions for care and length of time at home.
– Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, preferably by cough/sneezing into your elbow or sleeve. If you use a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash after use and wash your hands right away.
– In general, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
– Keep yourself as healthy as possible, staying physically active, managing stress, getting plenty of sleep, drinking water and other fluids, and eating nutritious foods.

As of April 27, 2009, the CDC has issued a travel warning for Mexico.  If you have recently travelled to Mexico be particularly alert for any flu like symptoms and see your healthcare provider.

Please know that the school system will continue to monitor the CDC website, stay in contact with the DeKalb County Board of Health, and continue our practices of thorough and frequent cleaning of facilities.  Staff and children are encouraged to wash hands frequently.  The School Health staff will be monitoring for any increase in absences related to flu related illnesses. Please contact your school nurse with any questions or concerns.

Check this website for additional updates or link to the CDC’s website (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm) for information on swine flu.