Glenys Hill, Superintendent

September 2, 2009

Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff:

The H1N1 flu virus (“Swine Flu”) continues to be a concern for our school district this year. We have spent time this summer learning more about this virus and working with local health officials to assure our schools are implementing the necessary prevention and response plans to address H1N1. It is important to remember that infection from all types of influenza can be prevented or lessened through the following:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, the upper arm of your shirt-sleeve, or your elbow.
• Wash your hands with soap and water. Although alcohol-based cleaners have proven helpful, studies show they are significantly less effective than soap and water, particularly on dirty hands.
• When you are sick, stay home. This tip is imperative for staff, parents and students. If you display flu-like symptoms, stay home to prevent the spread of the contagion to others.
• Make sure your school has proper emergency contact information. Provide your school with current emergency contact information of someone nearby. The emergency contact for your child needs to be someone who can pick up your student should he or she develop flu-like symptoms.

At this time, H1N1 swine flu is very much like the typical seasonal influenza we see each year, although the virus could change and cause more serious illness. For more information on the H1N1 swine flu, keep watching this website. You can also visit the following Web sites:

Cowlitz County Public Health Department – www.co.cowlitz.wa.us/health

Center for Disease Control – www.cdc.gov

Washington State Department of Health – www.doh.wa.gov

Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this time. With your help, we can help keep everyone safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Glenys Hill
Superintendent