In light of the developing concerns about the swine flu outbreak, NAESP is working quickly to help principals prevent the spread of swine flu in their communities. Below is helpful information for you and your school community:
CDC's Response to School Closures
On Tuesday March 5, the CDC provided updated guidance for schools regarding the spread of H1N1. More than 600 schools across the U.S. closed due to H1N1, but the CDC is now recommending they reopen, recognizing the unintended consequence of disrupting student learning when the federal government recommends school closures. However, in the event of high absenteeism of students, faculty, or staff in a school due to flu, administrators should consider closing. The CDC's recommendations include:
- School closure is not advised for a suspected or confirmed case of novel influenza A (H1N1) and, in general, is not advised unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school's ability to function.
- Schools that were closed based on previous interim CDC guidance related to this outbreak may reopen.
- Students, faculty, or staff with influenza-like illness (fever with a cough or sore throat) should stay home and not attend school or go into the community except to seek medical care for at least seven days even if symptoms resolve sooner.
- Students, faculty, and staff who are still sick seven days after they become ill should continue to stay home from school until at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved.
- School administrators should communicate regularly with local public health officials to obtain guidance about reporting of influenza-like illnesses in the school.
For the full list of recommendations, visit the
CDC's flu Web site.
Federal Action on Swine Flu (H1N1 Virus)
As concerns about the spread of swine flu (H1N1 virus) grow, the federal government has taken aggressive action to ensure states and local communities are prepared with preventative measures to protect against spreading flu, and are aware of the immediate and necessary actions that should be taken if an outbreak occurs. Congress has already held two informational hearings on the government’s preparedness against spreading flu, documenting the actions being taken to monitor the spread and the preparations being made for the worst-case scenario of a pandemic. In May, the House education committee will be holding a hearing on school preparedness against the spread of pandemic flu, recognizing the significant impact schools play in preventing and containing viruses. Additionally, President Obama has requested Congress provide $1.5 billion in emergency spending to bolster vaccine development and stockpiles. The Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. departments of Health & Human Services and Homeland Security will continue to monitor the spread of the flu and advise Congress and the White House on necessary actions, should more be taken.
*As a reminder, you can register your school today for an on-site seasonal immunization clinic next fall for your school community by calling 1-866-FLU-BUST.
Last updated May 6, 2009.