Given the media coverage of swine flu and the declaration of a U.S. public health emergency, Lake Washington School District is monitoring the current situation concerning swine flu.

In general, the district works with Public Health – Seattle and King County whenever a public health issue arises. Public Health – Seattle and King County has developed an extensive Web page on swine flu. Go to Public Health swine flu information for up to date information. You can also sign up to receive e-mail updates from Public Health.

The Center for Disease Control has developed a very informative Web page on swine flu. For information, go to http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.

Schools regularly emphasize disease prevention techniques such as washing hands frequently and covering the mouth and nose during a cough or sneeze. Parents may want to remind their children of the following:

• Wash your hands often. Germs are spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his/her eyes, nose or mouth. Scrub hands vigorously with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds, then rinse with clear water and dry with a clean towel.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
• Don’t share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or personal items. Sharing items creates a potential of transmitting germs and becoming sick.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue into a wastebasket. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve. Afterwards wash your hands with soap and water.
• Practice other good health habits. Keep yourself strong – and more resistant to disease – by getting plenty of sleep, staying physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.

Should your child become ill with flu-like symptoms, contact your health care provider and keep them home from school.

As more information becomes available on the situation, we will post it on this site.

Influenza porcina