October 21, 2009
Dear Parent or Guardian:
District 308 is working closely with the Kendall County Health Department to monitor the flu in our schools. This includes reporting our absentee numbers as directed. During the past few days, schools have reported an increase in the number of students and staff members who are absent due to flu-like symptoms.
All our schools are being aggressively disinfected with the appropriate cleaners on a daily basis. This includes all desks, doorknobs, bathrooms and hard surfaces. More commonly touched items are cleaned throughout the day as well.
However, the importance of the school and home partnership remains vital to keeping our children healthy and learning. We ask parents to continue working with us to keep the flu from spreading by keeping children at home if they are ill. Parents will receive a call from the school nurse if their child shows flu-like symptoms or becomes ill during the school day.
The Kendall County Health Department has provided the following recommendations to help stop the spread of germs and sickness:
- Keep children who are ill at home.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
- Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of the elbow.
- Remain at least three feet away from people who are ill.
- Avoid shopping malls, movie theaters or other places where large groups of people gather.
Remember, your children are watching you! Please set a good example by making sure everyone in your family practices these health safety tips.
Further information and links to public health sites can be access through the District 308 Web site at http://www.oswego308.org/family_information/healthservices.aspx. If you have additional questions, contact your healthcare provider or the Kendall County Health Department Flu Hotline number, 630-553-8340 or visit them at www.kendallhealth.org.
Sincerely,
Marti Neahring Director of District Student Services