Dear parent/guardian,
A national plan for pandemic influenza was put in place earlier this year, describing the health systems response. Under this plan, schools are to continue to operate normally unless advised by their local Department of Public Health in the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Dunshaughlin Community College has taken the following measures in an attempt to minimise the spread of the H1N1 virus:
Ø Raised awareness among students and staff by holding a Pastoral Care class about Swine Flu and displaying information around the school
Ø Placed hand sanitising gel dispensers at strategic points around the school
Ø Provided antibacterial wipes for all staff to clean surfaces in class rooms
Ø Enclosed a FAQ/information sheet for parents/guardians in this pack.
In the Pastoral Care class students received information about the nature, symptoms, spread, control and treatment of the H1N1 virus. They were advised that they are encouraged to bring in personal small bottles of hand sanitising gel and/or antibacterial wipes.
All parents/guardians should be vigilant for the symptoms of Flu (see FAQ/information sheet enclosed). In the event that a student is suffering from flu-like symptoms, we would advise that the student be kept at home and that the family GP and school be contacted. In addition, the HSE have a Flu Information Line (Freephone 1800 94 11 00).
The school will continue to act in accordance with the advice of the health authorities.
Kind regards,
Padraig Browne