Nov 22, 2009

10/8/09

To: Parents, Guardians

 

From:   K. Kruse, Superintendent

 

Re: Swine Flu Vaccine Clinic

 

A few weeks ago, you should have received a letter from the New Haven School District discussing the H1N1 (Swine Flu) situation.  The letter mentioned that schools may be asked to serve as clinic sites to vaccinate children.

 

The Franklin County Health Department and Patients First Health Care are now working with area schools to set up vaccination clinics and make sure as many students as possible can receive the H1N1 (Swine Flu) vaccine.

 

Please note the following:

 

  • There will be NO COST for your student to receive the vaccine at a school clinic.
  • Only K-12 students will be eligible to receive the vaccine at school-based clinics.  No adults, non-school age children, or other non-students may be served. 
  • There is a consent form included in this packet.  The form MUST be completed and returned to school by Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009 for your student to receive the vaccine.  Late forms cannot be accepted.
  • We would greatly appreciate parents accompanying their children to receive the vaccine.  Your presence is very reassuring to your child. 
  • Please return the consent form, marked "I DO NOT give consent" if you choose not to accept the vaccine for your student.
  • Students with other health issues should seek private care or contact the Franklin County Health Department.

 

A schedule of dates for the school-based clinics is not yet available.  This schedule depends largely on how soon, and how much, vaccine is delivered to the Franklin County Health Department.  We will contact you regarding the schedule as soon as it is developed.

 

Thank you for your assistance.  Please contact me at (573) 237-3231 if you have questions or would like additional information.

 

8/28/09

 

To:  Parents, New Haven Community Members

 

From:  K. Kruse, Superintendent

 

Re:  H1N1 Influenza ("swine flu")

 

 

Recently, you may have heard news reports about the H1N1 Influenza virus, also known as "swine flu."  There is a great deal of concern about the impact this flu will have on our population this fall and winter.

 

The New Haven School District is working with county, state, and federal agencies to closely monitor this situation, and to assist in efforts to minimize the spread of the flu and the impact it will have.

 

There are several things you should know about the H1N1 Influenza virus ("swine flu.")

 

·   The virus was first detected in Missouri in April 2009.  The virus seems to be very contagious.  However, most who develop the flu recover without complications.

 

·   This virus seems to impact people in the age 5-24 and 25-49 ranges more than the yearly, seasonal flu does.

 

·   Right now, the best ways to prevent the spread of the flu are through good hygiene, covering coughs, washing hands, and staying home if you are ill.

 

· Anyone who becomes ill with the H1N1 Influenza should stay at home until they are fever-free (without the use of Advil/Tylenol, etc.) for at least 24 hours.

 

· Anti-viral treatments (Tamiflu, etc.) available from your physician may assist in recovering from the H1N1 Influenza.


· Guidance from the government suggests that schools remain in session even if the H1N1 Influenza begins to affect the population. 

 

· We have been informed that a vaccine for the H1N1 virus should be available in October.

 

· This flu seems to affect school-age children to a greater degree than usual.  Therefore, school-age children are on the "priority list" to be vaccinated as early as possible.

 

· We have been informed that schools may be asked to play a major part in vaccinating children. 

 

· Schools may be asked to host on-site vaccinations in order to make sure as many children as possible receive the vaccine.

 

· Before a child can receive the vaccination, parents must give written consent.  Consent forms are being developed.

 

· The vaccine is a "killed" vaccine - the virus used to develop immunity is dead and should not cause the flu.

 

· Two doses 21-28 days apart will be required. 

 

· The H1N1 vaccine can be taken at the same time as the usual, seasonal, flu shot.

 

· More information can be found at:

 

  http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu

 

Please understand that this situation is changing rapidly, and new information is being provided on a daily basis. 

 

I would suggest that although the H1N1 Influenza is a serious matter, it should not be a cause of panic. Staying informed and following recommended precautions and treatments can minimize the effect of the H1N1 flu.  

 

The New Haven School District is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students - we will take the steps necessary to minimize the impact of the H1N1 flu.

 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding in this matter.  We will strive to keep you informed as new developments occur.