Schools prepare for possible flu outbreak

While schools across the nation are preparing for the start of a new school year, some parents may be a little concerned about the possibility of an H1N1 influenza virus outbreak amongst school children.

With the recent confirmation of one case of the H1N1 virus in Bourbon County, the local school district will be looking for proactive measures to keep students safe when school starts. According to USD 234 Superintendent Rick Werling, local administrators and nursing staff will be discussing the H1N1 virus in preparation for the school year.

Fort Scott Middle School Principal Barbara Albright said the safety of the students is a top priority, and the H1N1 virus will likely be the topic of discussion in the district's upcoming administrative meetings.

"We're getting ready for back to school administrative council meetings, the issue will be addressed," she said.

The local school district and its nursing staff has already been taking steps to keep Fort Scott students safe and healthy by providing necessary H1N1 virus information to parents, Albright said.

According to a letter, which was sent to parents in April, the symptoms of the H1N1 virus are similar to seasonal flu symptoms, which includes fever greater than 100 degrees, body aches, cough, sore throat, respiratory congestion and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.

If symptoms are noted, parents should take their children to see their family physician immediately and avoid contact with other people, the letter advised.

"Individuals who experience the above symptoms should contact their physician, who will determine whether testing or treatment is needed," the letter said. "If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others."

In addition, in the letter, parents are urged to teach their children to take specific preventative measures.

"Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to get rid of most germs and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth," the letter reads. "Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading the illness. Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues. Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting adequate rest and exercise."