Please read attachments as they contain answers to most frequently asked questions about the H1N1 Flu virus. Information is provided by New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
9/10/09
Update For Parents Regarding H1N1 Influenza Virus
Flu is very contagious: Both seasonal flu andH1N1 (swine) flu are very contagious.An infected person infects others beginning one day before any symptoms develop and seven days or more after becoming sick. They spread the virus two ways: (1)airborne droplets from uncovered sneezing and coughing, or (2) touching something with flu virus on it (for example: doorknobs, telephones) and then touching eyes, nose and mouth.
Be fever free for 24 hours; check in with the school nurse upon return to school: Before they return to school those who have been ill with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat) must be fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medication.Upon returning the student must check in with the school nurse for evaluation.
Tracking absenteeism —tell reasons for an absence: The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS) is recommending that schools track absenteeism. To comply with this recommendation the Lebanon School District will require that a reason be given for students who are called in sick (for example, fever vs. dentist appointment).
Emergency-contacts are required: With regards to a child who become sick during the school day: It is imperative that you complete the nurse’semergency form and list at least two adults (other than parents)who can pick your child up from school if you are not available. Please notify the school if you have a change in address or phone number.
Seasonal flu vaccination—school clinics: Due to the high number of people expected to go to their physicians for the seasonal flu vaccine, the state of New Hampshire recommends seasonal flu-vaccine clinics in the schools to take the burden off the local medical clinics. To comply with this recommendation the Lebanon School District hopes to have seasonal flu clinics in place for the students at the end of September. Preliminary papers were sent home the first day of school for parents to state their interest for a seasonal flu vaccination for their child. Please return these forms so we will have an idea of the quantity of vaccine we need to order. More information will be sent home soon.
H1NI (swine) flu vaccinations:The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended because it may decrease severity of the H1N1 flu; however it will not offer protection from the H1N1 flu. Because the H1N1 vaccine will not be released until late October, we have no clinics scheduled for H1N1vaccinations at this time. You will be notified as plans evolve.
Web sites where you can find more information about seasonal flu and H1N1 flu:
For more information, please contact the NH Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health Services, Communicable Disease Control Section @ 603-271-4496 or In NH †1-800-852-3345 Ext 4496.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact your school nurse, or you can reach me at
(603) 252-7789.
Ellen M. Bailey, RN
District Health Services Coordinator
Lebanon School District
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