We are writing to inform you of the status of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the Newton Public Schools.
We are pleased to report that the level of ILI at Oak Hill Middle School has dropped significantly with a total of 17 students absent today. Cases of ILI have been reported at nearly all of the other schools.
Newton is following the Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidelines which state:
* Students or staff who appear ill with influenza-like illness should be promptly isolated and sent home. All such students and staff should stay out of school for at least 7 days even if their symptoms resolve sooner. Students and faculty who are still sick at 7 days should continue to stay home from school until at least 24 hours after they have completely recovered.
* If a child or adult is ill with non-influenza symptoms, they should stay home at least one day to observe how the illness develops and until completely well for 24 hours.
Also in accordance with state guidelines, school nurses are practicing enhanced surveillance. They are following up on all absences by calling the home to determine the reason for the absence. Parents can help by providing information about the reason for any absence when calling the school so fewer follow up calls are necessary. Absence rates will continue to be monitored to detect any increases that would be of concern.
It is important to remember that exposure to the H1N1 influenza virus can occur not only at school but anywhere in the community. Frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer is the best way individuals can avoid getting the flu.
We understand that 7 days of exclusion can be difficult, particularly when most children feel recovered in a shorter period of time. The reason for the policy is that even when feeling better, people can spread the illness for that length of time.
We are grateful to the community for helping us to follow the federal and state guidance and to prevent the spread of this illness as much as possible.