H1N1 Updates (Swine Flu)

Last updated Thursday, June 11, 2009 4:31 PM

Guilford County Schools (GCS) has confirmed that a student from Gibsonville Elementary has H1N1, also known as swine flu. A letter and factsheet with information about the virus went home with all students at Gibsonville Thursday, June 11.

The student is currently at home and not attending school. Both the student and close contacts are currently being treated with anti-viral medications. The school is taking all precautionary measures, including thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing all touch surfaces. 

At this time, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are not advising school/daycare closure for a suspected or confirmed case of H1N1. The CDC recommends for sick students and staff with flu-like symptoms to stay home for a minimum of seven days, and adults should continue to monitor children’s health (and their own) for flu-like symptoms.

Remember, good personal hygiene is the best way to prevent the flu:

• Wash your hands often. Washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is ideal.
• Hand sanitizer (gels, rubs and hand wipes) is also effective. Hand wipes must be disposed of properly. Always read and follow label instructions when using hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues and dispose of used tissues properly. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve—not your hands.
• Stay away from people who are sick.

Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to those of regular influenza (flu) and can include fever, cough, sore throat, chills, fatigue and body aches. Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea can be present as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About H1N1

For more information, visit www.guilfordhealth.org.

To view the GCS Newsbreak, click here.

Click here to view the Pandemic Influenza Response Plan.