Swine Flu - Schools

07.07.2009

Gloucestershire schools have been given clear advice about Swine Flu as cases increase across the county.

Gloucestershire County Council, working with NHS Gloucestershire, has issued guidance to all 302 primary, secondary and special schools. As of 3pm Tuesday 7th July, less than 12% of schools have reported children showing symptoms of swine flu.

Group Director of Children & Young People, Jo Davidson said: “We know that swine flu is a source of great concern to parents now that it has reached Gloucestershire. We are working closely with NHS Gloucestershire, as the lead organisation for swine flu, to provide up to date and authoritative advice to schools. As the number of cases in Gloucestershire rises rapidly, we have issued up to date advice. If you child has symptoms, keep them at home and follow the guidance given.”

Guidance includes:

• If you have flu-like symptoms, stay at home and seek medical advice (via the online flu checker at www.nhs.uk or calling the National Flu Information Line on 0800 1 513 513 or contacting NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or phoning your local GP).
• Inform the school in the normal way that your child is staying at home with flu-like symptoms.
• Staff or children without symptoms should be in school – even if they have had contact with someone displaying flu-like symptoms
• National guidance is that there is no longer a need to close a school when a child is confirmed with swine flu.
• Schools need to continue their efforts to promote good hygiene and effective cleaning. Children should be encouraged to follow Catch It, Bin It, Kill It.
• Schools should let staff and parents know when there is a diagnosed case, so that everyone is aware of the higher risks for certain vulnerable groups – the under-fives, pregnant women, those with low immunity and those with heart or lung problems.