H1N1 is still with us

The news is distressing. We are doing what we can to protect you, your children, us and the community. But it doesn't hurt to have a couple reminders:

• cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue in the waste basket
• If you don't have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve (not your hand)
• Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based cleaner
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Avoid close contract with people who are sick, if possible
• Stay healthy: eat nutritious foods, get enough sleep and exercise.

Please review these safety tips with your entire family.

All of our classrooms have mini-towels for cleaning surfaces like desks, doorknobs, chairs and other items your child may come in contact with. All of the classrooms have an alcohol-based hand sanitizer available. Perhaps one hand cleaning at the beginning of class and another at the end before going into the hallway. All restrooms are check throughout the day for cleanliness and having available soap and towels. Remind your student to tell the teacher or me if there is not a towel cleaner or hand-sanitizer or clean equipped rest room available.

The symptoms are similar to seasonal flu:

• fever (above 100 degrees F)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose
• in some cases diarrhea and vomiting

If you have questions or concerned about one or more of the symptoms, contact your doctor.

We attempt to stay informed. So far we have not experienced unusually large absences or at-risk conditions. The older children (high schoolers) appear to be more resistant. But each child is unique and you know the medical conditions of your children.

Review the precautions and teach prevention. If you have questions ask your doctor or contract our fantastic school nurse, Pat Walker 612-668-3037.