Wellington now has the highest confirmed number of H1N1 influenza cases in the country and it is likely that the number of cases will continue to grow along with the usual seasonal influenza and viral colds.
The SWIS BOT and Management team have been kept up to date by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health. The following information is from their latest update:
From Friday 19 June that New Zealand is moving to a “manage it” phase in its Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu strategy. The continuing aim is to reduce the impact of the virus on people, communities and the health system at a time when they are already managing the usual winter flu increases.
It is unlikely that schools will be advised to close if they have suspected or confirmed cases. The Ministry of Health advises that there is no need for any restrictions on people returning to work, school or their early childhood service after an overseas trip, unless they have symptoms.
Gatherings such as parent teacher evenings, sports tournaments can continue, with the usual precautions.
Students or staff with symptoms should stay at home in line with normal practice.
Hygiene measures should continue including hand washing before and after eating, keeping hands away from mouths, and covering mouths when coughing or sneezing.
Care should be taken that students who have particular medical conditions or who are susceptible to infection avoid contact with people who have symptoms.
At SWIS:
Parents and students may be aware that on Friday 19 June several children (particularly from one class) did not attend school or went home during the day because of illness. The majority of the ill students had a illness with fever, cough and headache. This apparent cluster has been discussed with Regional Public Health authorities and they have not suggested any alternative management.
To help limit the spread of illness at SWIS – please keep your child at home if they are unwell.
This is a further reminder to ensure that your daytime contact details are current - please update any changes to your phone numbers with the school office on 939-9872.
