Manitoba students and teachers returning to school and work this week are asked to do their part to maintain good health by taking precautions such as hand washing and covering up a sneeze or cough to avoid the spread of the H1N1 flu virus, Education, Citizenship and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson said today.
“The first few days of school are hectic for parents, children and staff, and it is important to keep in mind that caring for your health is a top priority,” Bjornson said. “I would also like to remind drivers and cyclists to watch out for students on the roads, streets and at bus stops as they experience the excitement of starting a new school year.”
Over the summer, information about the H1N1 flu has been sent to school divisions as well as posted on the provincial website, regional health authority sites and in many public buildings. Educational material will also be sent home with students to share with their families.
In the spring, H1N1 was considered to be present in all Manitoba communities and in all public settings. Although it is difficult to predict what will happen this fall, most individuals with H1N1 in Manitoba have recovered without needing specific medical care or hospitalization.
“A number of parents are asking whether or not schools will be closed. A decision to close a school would involve careful consideration of the specific situation at the time,” Bjornson said. “However, as a precaution, health-care professionals advise that students and staff who are sick should stay at home or be sent home as soon as it is practical and safe to do so to prevent further spread of infection.”
Manitoba Health and Healthy Living information states that any decision to order school closures would take into account the spread and severity of the H1N1 virus within Manitoba as well as recommendations from the Public Health Agency of Canada and other jurisdictions. If the public health risk is considered sufficient to warrant closing a school or group of schools, the decision will be based on consultation with the chief provincial public health officer and/or the regional medical officer of health.
Schools are being asked to report instances of unusually high absenteeism to the public health nurse at their local community public health office. A listing of public health offices can be found online.
For additional information on H1N1 flu, school administrators, parents, teachers and students are welcome to visit the provincial website or the Manitoba Education, Citizenship and Youth site.
“Please join me in wishing everyone a safe and healthy return to the new school year,” Bjornson said. “The creativity, curiosity and dedication that make our school system effective are always inspiring and I look forward to seeing as many students and schools as possible this coming year.”
