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Flu Information & Resources
During the coming school year, more people than usual in our schools and communities are likely to be getting sick with the flu (influenza). In addition to the regular "seasonal" influenza that comes around every fall, we are still likely to be seeing cases of the novel H1N1 influenza ("swine flu") that first appeared last spring. Novel H1N1 flu never completely went away over the summer, so the flu season may start early this year. East Metro Integration District #6067 is prepared for a return of the H1N1 virus, and is working in partnership with county and state health agencies to help our students and staff remain as healthy as possible.
This webpage will be updated when new information becomes available.
District Plans
The staff of Harambee and Crosswinds will emphasize those practices recommended by the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control, including an emphasis on hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and urging students not to share personal items.
PLEASE NOTE: The decision to dismiss students in the event of a large-scale flu outbreak will be made by East Metro Integration District officials in consultation with officials from the Minnesota Department of Health, Washington County Public Health, and Ramsey County Public Health. Our aim is to balance the goal of reducing the number of people who become seriously ill from the influenza with the goal of minimizing the educational and academic disruption and safety risks to children.
Actions Steps for Parents & Families
The Centers for Disease Control recommends the following "Good Health Habits" that will help stop the spread of germs at home, work, and school:
- Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid touching your 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.
Additional Resources & Information
Many of these publications are in PDF format, which requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to be installed on your computer.
Related Links
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Minnesota Department of Health
National Association of School Nurses
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