Tips for Preventing H1N1 Swine Flu in Schools

That uninvited guest, swine flu, would love to come to your school! Labeled H1N1 flu for the type of proteins found in its outer coat, this flu strain is different enough from the flu strains of previous years that it has a higher rate of infection. H1N1 influenza, like all flu viruses, is primarily transmitted by coughing and sneezing; virus particles can land on surfaces and then be transferred to the nose or mouth via the hands. When there are a large number of people in close quarters, flu spreads more easily. A school is a flu party waiting to happen. However, there are a number of simple steps that parents, teachers and students can take to slow the spread of that unwanted guest, H1N1, as well as other seasonal flu viruses.

Parents can make sure H1N1 doesn't go to the party. Take time to teach children proper hand washing techniques. Hand washing is a great help in removing virus particles. Keys are lathering all surfaces of the hand thoroughly for as long as it takes to sing "twinkle twinkle little star" or "happy birthday", then using a paper towel to turn off the taps, especially in a public restroom. Keep children away from anyone showing signs of flu, such as fever (defined by the CDC as a temperature higher than 100˚ F), vomiting, diarrhea, headache or body aches. If a child shows symptoms of flu, keep them home from school until at least 24 hours after their fever has gone. Prepare to work from home as long as necessary. Parents should continue routine cleaning and disinfecting of household surfaces, and encourage healthy habits in their children: a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, daily exercise, and a good night's sleep every night. While a vaccine for H1N1 is not yet available, parents may consider having their children vaccinated for seasonal flu. Last, the PTA reminds us to reassure children. H1N1 is simply a variant of the flu virus that has been around for thousands of years.

Students can avoid socializing with the unwanted H1N1 guest. Kids should be reminded to wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after activities like gym class or playing on the playground. Always keep the hands away from the eyes, nose and mouth. If a sneeze or cough comes on, hide the face in the elbow, or use a tissue - and throw the tissue away immediately afterwards. Children should also be reminded to tell a grownup immediately if they feel sick. Kids may enjoy doing educational activity sheets the National PTA organization has prepared on flu safety.

Teachers can send the guest away from the party. Encourage frequent hand washing or hand sanitizing breaks during the day. To combat H1N1 flu, the CDC recommends routine cleaning of "areas that students and staff touch often," using regular cleaners. Many elementary schools wipe down desks daily; and don't forget areas such as pencil sharpeners, light switches, doorknobs, and computer keyboards. If a student starts showing symptoms of flu, separate them from the other students immediately, and have a respiratory mask available for them to wear. A lenient make-up policy for schoolwork for ill students may help to discourage kids from returning to school too early.

By working together, parents, teachers, and children can help to reduce the spread of the H1N1 flu virus and other seasonal viruses. Simple precautions will help everyone to stay healthier. Don't let your school be a flu party!

Pedro Acha, DVM and Boris Szyfres, DVM, Zoonoses and Communicable Diseases Common to Man and Animals, Pan American Health Organization, 1989.

CDC, "Seasonal and Novel H1N1 Flu: A Guide for Parents," flu.gov

Marilyn Ferdinand, "Swine Flu: What You Should Know", pta.org

PTA, "Parent Tips:H1N1 (Swine) Flu", pta.org

"CDC Guidance for State and Local Public Health Officials and School Administrators for School (K-12) Responses to Influenza during the 2009-2010 School Year", flu.gov