April 30, 2009

 Dear Families,

 We want to keep you informed about the topic of H1N1/Swine Flu that is causing concern throughout our State and country. During a news conference held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 30, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment confirmed two cases of H1N1/Swine Flu in Colorado. We're told one case is a woman in Arapahoe County and one is a man in Douglas County. Health officials stressed that neither case is connected to the schools.

 DCSD takes this opportunity to remind students, staff and families of recommended personal precautions provided by the state health department to decrease their chances of getting sick:

• Wash hands frequently
• Cover your sneezes and coughs
• Avoid others with respiratory illnesses
• Stay home if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and contact your health care provider

 H1N1/Swine Flu is an A-type flu virus that infects pigs and, in this case, has been transmitted to humans. The symptoms are the same as for seasonal flu.

 We have received questions regarding restrictions on people who have recently visited Mexico. At this time, the health department tells us there is no reason to restrict a child or an employee from being in school just because they have been in Mexico. If they show no symptoms of illness, they can be in school. We are stepping up our handwashing campaign and are encouraging you to do the same at home. We have been told that is the best defense against any influenza. We have been told that Coloradans are more likely to get the type A and B flu that already exists in our State. Dr. Ned Calonge of the Colorado Department of Health and Environment states this is a mild flu and all of those that had it are recovering after only a mild illness.

 DCSD will send out information to families if parent action is required due to a public health concern. Douglas County School District has a comprehensive prevention, mitigation and response plan in the event of a public health emergency. We are monitoring this situation across the School District, and are working with staff and students to encourage proper hand hygiene. In addition, we are exercising proper and standard cleaning throughout the District.

 Information related to DCSD will be posted on the School District's website at www.dcsdk12.org. Please refer to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/ for official information.

 Sincerely,

Karen Brofft

Roxborough Primary & Intermediate