How HRSB is dealing with the H1N1 virus

The Halifax Regional School Board (HRSB) is well aware of the concerns associated with the H1N1 virus (human swine influenza), and is encouraging everyone-students, parents and staff-to take extra precautions.

Everyone is being adviced to:

-Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
-Cough and sneeze in your arm or sleeve.
-Get your annual flu shot.
-Keep doing what you normally do, but stay home if you feel sick.
-Talk to a health professional if you experience severe flu-like symptoms.

“School staff are encouraging students to wash their hands thoroughly and often, and to not share food or drinks with their classmates. Hand sanitizers have been installed in every school in or near the main entrances for visitors,” states the HRSB website.

The HRSB developed a pandemic preparedness plan, and has commenced planning internally and externally by:

-having staff attend workshops and conferences on this topic to provide the required background for planning;
-establishing a preparedness planning committee chaired by the Senior Staff Advisor;
-having department/locations commence the preplanning phase to ensure an appropriate preparedness level;
-meeting with all union groups to establish a consultative approach to pandemic planning;
-consulting with the Department of Education and the Department of Health Promotion and Protection.

The provincial Department of Health Promotion and Protection has established a toll-free line for information on H1N1.The number is 1-888-451-4222.

For the latest updates and further information on the swine flu visit the HRSB website at: www.hrsb.ns.ca and click on H1N1 Flu Virus.

The Public Health Agency of Canada provides the most up-to-date information on H1N1 influenza symptoms, hygiene and treatment at: www.fightflu.ca.