SWINE FLU MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
by Bob Lenhardt
April 30, 2009
Dear Parents/Guardians:
As you know, swine influenza has been identified in the United States, with several confirmed cases in the State of Illinois. We are sending you this letter to inform you that Madison CUSD #12 is monitoring the situation and will be prepared in the event a case of swine flu is identified in the community and/or within our schools.
Administrators and staff have been directed to continually remind students to use good health practices as outlined below. The custodial staff is taking extra precaution in sanitizing desk tops and other frequently touched surfaces throughout our buildings. Hand sanitizer will be provided for each classroom.
It is important to emphasize everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the swine flu. Parents/Guardians, students and staff should take the following precautions:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve if you do not have a tissue.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If adults or children in the household are sick with a respiratory illness, they should stay home and avoid contact with others to keep from spreading the germs to others.
If your child becomes ill with flu-like symptoms, including: fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, please keep them home. You may want to contact your doctor. Your doctor will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
Additional information can be viewed on the Illinois Department of Public Health’s web site http://www.idph.state.il.us/
If you become aware of any confirmed cases of the Swine Flu in the Madison area please notify the District office at 877-1712.
Yours for better schools,
Sandra Schroeder, Ph. D.
Interim Superintendent of Schools
