With the spread of the swine flu reaching pandemic proportions worldwide, the effect it is having on schools is a growing concern. School-aged children are at risk. According to the National Education Association, “So far, with 2009 H1N1 flu, the largest number of cases has been in people between the ages of 5 and 24-years-old.” That puts schools in the crosshairs of this epidemic, and makes classroom prevention a top priority.
Swine Flu Symptoms
Teachers need to be aware of the symptoms of both swine and seasonal flu. According to the CDC, symptoms of swine flu are:
- fever – though not everyone with H1N1 will have a fever
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- body aches
- headache
- chills
- fatigue
- sometimes diarrhea and vomiting
Seasonal flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness. The CDC details these seasonal flu symptoms:
- fever (usually high)
- headache
- extreme tiredness
- dry cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle aches
- nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
The symptoms of both illnesses are similar, so a blood test is needed to determine the type. Treatment for both types of flu is the same.
H1N1 Virus in School
So, what can teachers do to help prevent the spread of flu in their classrooms? The NEA offers the following tips for teachers.
Teachers should teach and practice good hand washing. Students should be taught to wash their hands with hot soapy water, especially after coughing or sneezing, and to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth. The NEA also recommends alcohol-based hand cleaners. Students should be taught to cover coughs or sneezes and how to use tissues and dispose of them properly.
Teachers and school personnel should be vigilant and clean hard surfaces such as desks, tables and other classroom items that students may touch, as both forms of flu are spread through contact. The CDC says that there is no need disinfect these beyond regular cleaning, but some schools suggest using special cleansers.
Observe students when they come to class, and send any with symptoms to the health office or school nurse. Limit their contact with other students and staff members. In addition, have masks handy to help prevent the spread of germs.
Prevent Spread of Flu in Schools
The best way to avoid the spread of the flu is to stay home when sick. Students and teachers with the flu are encouraged to remain at home for 24 hours after the fever has subsided, but the NEA recommends that “If a household member is sick, parents should keep any school-aged children home for 5 days from the time the first person in the home became sick.”
Schools that have a large number of swine flu cases may consider closing for a period of time to break the contagion cycle. They can help the CDC track the spread of the flu by reporting school closings directly to the CDC.
Swine flu and seasonal flu are of great concern, especially in schools where students can easily be exposed. Teachers need to know the symptoms of each type of flu. They need to observe their students and remove those who may be ill from class. Teachers should follow flu prevention techniques in their classrooms, and get a flu vaccine if their doctor advises so that they can remain healthy throughout the flu season.
Sources:
“Schools and H1N1: What You Need to Know,” NEA.org. August 26, 2009.
“Seasonal Flu Information for Schools & Childcare Providers,” CDC.gov. July 1, 2009.
“H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): General Information,” CDC.gov.
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