Swine Flu Health Advisory

from the Buncombe County Health Center

The State of North Carolina has entered a heightened surveillance stage resulting from the presence of a swine flu virus (H1N1) that is making people sick in several states and in Mexico. Although, to date, mostly mild illness has occurred in the United States, we realize that many people are worried. We believe students can safely attend classes, and schools will remain open at this time. Individual schools might have to close if students or staff are diagnosed with swine flu.

At this time, the state and local health departments have advised us that students can continue to come to school, as long as they are not sick and do not think they have flu symptoms.

Flu-like symptoms include: fever (over 100 degrees F.), feverishness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose. Additional symptoms may be experienced with swine flu, including muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.

Flu spreads easily. If you suspect your child is getting the flu, it is
important that he or she does not attend school or go anywhere else —
such as group childcare, the mall, or sporting events — where other
people would be exposed to flu germs.

It is also important to teach your children how to reduce their risk of
getting the flu and protect others from infection. Teach your children:

•    To wash their hands often. Washing with soap and hot water for at
least 20 seconds is ideal (that’s about as long as it takes to sing the
“Happy Birthday” song twice).

•    Proper use of hand sanitizer. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes all work
well, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol. Hand wipes must be
disposed of properly. Always read and follow label instructions when
using hand sanitizer.

•    To keep their hands away from their face and avoid touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

•    To cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the
inside of their elbow. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve — not your
hands!

•    To learn these healthy habits by setting a good example and always doing them yourself.