In the past few weeks, and increasingly over the past few days, concerns about the H1N1 Flu have increased. It is my hope that the information included in this report will help many of you understand the nature of the problem and give you some piece of mind about the actions being taken by White Oak ISD.
What do we know?
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There are White Oak ISD students at home sick with flu-like symptoms.
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Some of the local doctors have made a clinical diagnosis that their patients have H1N1 Flu. Although these diagnoses are most likely correct, WOISD has not received any conformation of a Laboratory Test Confirmed case of H1N1.
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The symptoms that should alert you to see your doctor are, fever over 100 degrees and a cough or sore throat. The treatment for H1N1 and Type A influenza are basically the same and early diagnosis along with staying at home will help the healing process and cut down on the spread of the flu.
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WOISD is not experiencing an increase in absences. Attendance for the week of September 14, 2009 remains above 96%.
What are we doing?
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Our custodial staff is cleaning and disinfecting all common-use areas every night. Industrial strength aerosol disinfecting “bombs” are being used throughout the district.
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Antibacterial hand soap is available for all students and staff. Our faculty and staff are monitoring all students to insure proper procedures are being followed.
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WOISD has been approved to provide the H1N1 Vaccine to all students, faculty, and staff as soon as it becomes available. When the plan is ready, all parties involved will be notified as to how and where the vaccine will be dispensed.
There is no doubt that this flu strain is very contagious and that we must be diligent in our efforts to keep everyone healthy. I know that if all the stakeholders in White Oak will make themselves aware of the facts concerning this problem, we will be able to stay healthy and continue the education process for our students. You can find more information about the flu and the vaccination process on the following websites:
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/txflu/default.shtm
Thank you for your help in keeping facts separate from rumors. Everyone at White Oak ISD is concerned about the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, and community.
