USD 224's Plan for Healthy Children: Reducing Exposure to H1N1/ Other Diseases.

by Brian Pekarek

Although there are no confirmed cases of H1N1 in Clay, Cloud, Washington, or Republic Counties, the USD 224 School District is taking steps in order to limit exposure of communicable diseases and keep our children safe this school year. We have been working with our district nurse and the Washington Country Health Department regarding this matter and we have come up with some changes that will start at the beginning of the school year. We believe that these precautions will help us avoid exposure to diseases in general.

1. Janitors will disinfect the water fountains, door handles, desks, and bathrooms (doors leading into the stalls, faucets, toilets, sinks, etc.) on a daily basis.

2. If there are many students absent due to illness, the janitors will increase the cleaning schedule.

3. If a student becomes sick at school, a separate room will be provided for the child (if possible) until they can be picked up by a parent or guardian.

Other Useful Information for Parents:

1. A vaccine is being tested for the H1N1 virus right now. It may be ready for the students in the fall. If so, we will give you more information about this when we know more.

2. Encourage your child to wash their hands with warm water and soap during the school day.

3. If your child is sick, keep them home from school until they feel better.

4. Other important information on staying healthy and avoiding H1N1 can be gleaned from these websites: http://www.kdheks.gov/ and www.cdc.gov.