Community Notice: Reports Received on H1N1 Influenza

Courtesy of contacts from parents, we have learned that local pediatricians have informed some parents that their offices are seeing cases of flu in Darien.  Although the absence rates that we track daily have not shown large numbers of absences, we have seen some increase from the norm by three or four percent in the fall.  Pediatricians’ offices have not contacted us directly on this, so the information relayed here must be considered as unofficial, but it still is worth sharing.

Apparently, the flu cases are suspected but not confirmed in each of our levels: elementary, middle, and high school. 
 
It is not surprising that flu has surfaced in the northeast and in Darien. Other areas of the country have experienced early-season flu, including at some colleges as early as August, we were told. So the fact that pediatricians are reporting to parents instances of flu in Darien is to be expected. 
 
We have begun to distribute hand sanitizer to our schools, although the sanitizer is not meant to replace good hand washing routines. Hand washing with soap and hot water is regarded as an important defense against flu transmission.

Regarding H1N1 vaccines, it is our understanding that pediatricians’ offices (at least
those who placed orders) have begun to receive limited quantities of the vaccine and it is meant for certain priority risk categories of individuals and for certain health care workers and certain emergency responders. Although Darien Health Director David Knauf has placed a vaccine order for the Town of Darien, he does not expect to be in receipt of vaccine in the near future. He is in a waiting mode, at this point, as are most Health Directors.
 
Please regard this as an informational update, and it is meant to inform the public, not to alarm the public. The good news (if anything related to the flu can be considered “good” news) is that the impact of the current flu is not unlike regular seasonal flu. Naturally, however, those with compromised immune systems should consult their personal physicians, especially if high fever or respiratory distress symptoms are experienced.
 
Finally, we wish to repeat the message that we have shared in the past; our
recommendations remain the same:

• Re-emphasize the importance of routine health practices, especially
• Handwashing, etiquette for coughing, and not sharing personal items like water bottles
• Be watchful of routine symptoms, but don’t overreact
• If you or your child experience flu-like symptoms, health experts advise that you stay home and carefully monitor your symptoms. 
• Public health officials continue to advise you to seek attention only if unusually sick

Darien Public Schools
203-656-7400