Greenwich Roundup: 05/25/09 - Last Minute WMS Health Update

Monday, May 25, 2009

05/25/09 - Last Minute WMS Health Update

WESTERN MIDDLE SCHOOL

From: Stacey_gross@greenwich.k12.ct.us

Hello, this is Stacey Gross, Principal of Western Middle School, with an update on the health situation at Western Middle School - school will remain open tomorrow, Tuesday, May 26th. If you are well and are not exhibiting any flu-like symptoms, please come to school.

If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, based on the Greenwich Department of Health's Attendance Guidance Memo posted on the web site, please remain at home for a minimum of seven days. We would also encourage you to see your healthcare provider. Please continue to check the web site for the most up to date and accurate information.

Thank you and if you have any questions please feel free to call school on Tuesday.

PLEASE ALSO SEE:

H1N1 Flu Virus Updates
Most Current Updates on H1N1 Flu Virus:

5/25/09: Health Update - Western Middle School and Glenville classes at WMS will remain open and on schedule, Tuesday, May 26, 2009.

5/23/09: WMS Update - 8th Grade Trip to Washington D.C. Canceled
Click here for links to the State Department of Health and Center for Disease Control - Information on H1n1 (Swine Flu) Virus

Greenwich Department of Health Guidance for School Attendance:

ATTENTION ALL SCHOOLS:

Please follow the following "Interim Guidance for School Attendance" issues by the Town of Greenwich Department of Health. The information is consistent with CDC and CT Department of Public Health guidelines and was reviewed by the Greenwich Department of Health, Dr. James R. Sabetta, Director of Infectious Diseases at Greenwich Hospital, and Dr. Toni Salvatore, School Medical Advisor.

• Students, faculty and staff who experience influenza-like illness (ILI) should stay home and not attend school for a minimum of 7 days even if symptoms resolve sooner

• Students, faculty and staff who are still sick after 7 days from the onset of symptoms should continue to stay home from school until at least 24 hours after all symptoms have resolved Symptoms of Influenza-like illness - Fever (100°F or 37.7°C) with cough or sore throat - Other symptoms may include – headache, runny or stuffy nose, body aches or chills, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

• Students, faculty and staff should follow stringent infection control measures to reduce the spread of influenza, including but not limited to:

- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or the crook of your elbow

- Wash your hands often with soap and water; use alcohol based hand sanitizer if water is not available

- Try not to touch your mouth, nose or eyes

- Avoid close contact with people who are sick

- Stay home from school, work and other group activities if you are sick

Parents should be advised to consult with their health care providers if children are experiencing symptoms of the flu. Guidance for assessment and treatment of influenza-like illness has been provided to the local medical community and the physicians are aware of these recommendations for school attendance. (Download: Greenwich Dept. of Health School Attendance Guidance )

Previous Notices:

5/23/09: