H1N1 (Swine Flu) Information 

This message will provide you with some important health information and tips to keep your student, family and schools healthy.

• Keep your child home from school if they are sick, and contact a health care provider if the child exhibits flu-like symptoms.
• Instruct children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.  I may prevent those around your child from getting sick.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance form others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Wash hands frequently to protect against germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a persons touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose and mouth.
• Practice other good health habits. Keep yourself strong - and more resistant to disease by getting plenty of rest, staying physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating nutritious food.
• Parents and families need to develop their own personal plan to respond to possible school or daycare closings and the need to provide care for an ill family member.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu in people?

The symptoms in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1 flu.

How does H1N1 flu spread?

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

The following resources include up-to-date information and answers to questions regarding swine flu and prevention:

Please observe the following recommendations from Linn County Public Health regarding the 2009 H1N1 influenza outbreak:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow to protect those around you.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread rapidly this way.

• Try to avoid close contact with those who are ill.

• If you are sick, stay home from work or school to limit the spread of the virus. If you feel you have influenza symptoms, please call your doctor for further instructions. Do not go directly to the doctor's office to limit spreading the virus to others.

Protect Your Child and Family from the Flu

Children at High Risk for Flu Complications

Flu Brochure

Recommendations for Large Public Events

Talking to Children About the Flu Fact Sheet CDC Recommendations