3rd August 2009

Dear Parents,
 
Many of you are aware of the public health crisis which may arise from Swine flu, and we would like to inform you of the school's current response and future plans.

1. We ask that should one member of the family display any flu like symptoms especially a high temperature then we request that the entire family is kept away from school for seven days, or until all symptoms have disappeared, or testing has taken place and an all clear been given. If  your family  has been out of the Nepal in the seven days before your child returns to school it would be helpful for us to know so that we can be vigilant for any signs of  flu like illness in class. To ensure the widest protection of the school community, we would stress again the importance of ensuring that everyone who enters the school grounds abides by the no-spitting rule at all times, as this will also protect the school community from currently prevalent infections. Similarly, washing hands with soap regularly is an extremely important defence against the transmission of a range of infections.
 
2. The school is continuously monitoring information and advice available on Swine flu from reputable sources, particularly the World Health Organisation (WHO). The school has taken advice from a number of organisations and is monitoring the situation carefully.
 
3. The school has in place an Infectious Disease Decision Making Matrix, which enables staff to make decisions about how to respond to different stages of a public health crisis. This Matrix is being revised to address the current concerns.
 
4. Many of you may be aware that a number of agencies are making the flu vaccine available to staff and their families. The influenza season is usually in autumn and winter but, families and staff could benefit from having the seasonal influenza vaccine earlier. In the UK it is normally recommended for those that have a higher risk of complications from seasonal flu eg > 65 yrs and those with underlying health conditions such as asthma and diabetes. Other countries recommend the vaccine is used also for children and adults who are fit and well as it is very safe and reduces the risk of getting an unpleasant illness that can be easily passed to others. Although it will not protect against Swine flu, it will prevent seasonal flu. We recommend discussing with your physician any doubts you may have regarding the use of the vaccine including adverse reactions.
 
The School Board is maintaining an oversight on the school's response to the potential threat of Swine flu, and will keep the parent body informed. Please feel free to contact me or David Bruce, the Crisis Management Officer, if you would like to discuss this further.
 
Yours sincerely,

Sandj Wilderspin
Principal