As we reflect upon last year, the minimal outbreak of the H1N1 virus was largely due to the successful implementation of the immunization campaign and other infection control measures.
 

The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that approximately 45 per cent of Canadians rolled up their sleeves to get the H1N1 flu shot and protected themselves and their families from this outbreak.  Additionally, every Canadian who coughed or sneezed in their sleeve, who made a point to wash their hands frequently, and stayed home when they were sick contributed to a shared effort to minimize the impact of this virus.

It appears, at last reporting by the Public Health Agency of Canada, that the H1N1 virus is now presenting more like a seasonal flu than that of a pandemic.  However, individuals are encouraged to get the flu shot to protect their health and guard against the flu. As far as we know, to date, there will be a single trivalent (a three component vaccine), one of which will be the pandemic H1N1 strain.

Thank you once again for your contributions, as we fought against the H1N1 flu virus last year. Your diligent efforts certainly contributed to help minimize the overall effects we experienced within the school division.

 

Below please find some key reminders to review with students and staff, as we begin the school year:
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly in warm, soapy water or use alcohol-based hand rub.  Good hand hygiene is the best way to fight all flu viruses.
• Cough and sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue, not your hand.
• Dispose of used tissues immediately, and then wash your hands.
• Avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose.
• Keep commonly touched surfaces and items clean and disinfected.
• Stay home if you’re sick. Contact a health care provider if your symptoms worsen.

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