Influenza

September 10, 2009

Hello Families,

Due to recent concerns of H1N1 in our country, we are recommending some practices to help prevent the spread. Though there has not been any case in our area, we at Children's Montessori Center will continue to take necessary precautions to keep our environment safe for the children. All food, including snacks, will be handled by teachers only with the use of tongs or gloves and then passed out to the children. We will also work with the children to review the practices listed below.

* stay home if you are sick. Symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of common flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If these symptoms are present, stay home from work. If children present the symptoms keep them home from school ( It is now recommended to wait 24 hours once the fever has broke before returning to work or school).

* always cover your cough by coughing into your sleeve or a tissue.

* contact the doctor's office before visiting the office if sick with flu-like symptoms.

* wash hands often and use hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.

* avoid close contact with others who are sick.

* avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

* plan now with your family what you will do if a pandemic does develop.

(from Dr. Daniel Rosenquist of Columbus Family Practice)

If you have any additional concerns or questions please contact the staff.

Thanks,

Jason