Last updated November 5, 2009

Every year a number of flu viruses circulate in the community. H1N1 influenza A is the most recent. Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) is in regular communication with the health unit regarding the international flu outbreak. The local health unit and provincial authorities are the medical professionals and it is their guidance that is relied upon. A district Pandemic Response Plan (pdf) has been developed to outline the decision‐making framework that will be followed within HPEDSB when dealing with pandemic influenza. New! Questions and answers about H1N1 (pdf).

Call your doctor if you experience flu-like symptoms

Individuals should contact a medical practitioner upon the first signs of flu-like symptoms such as: high fever, cough, headache, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, or shortness of breath.

Take the following routine steps to protect your health

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are unwell, stay home from school or work to prevent spreading illness. Consult with your health care provider if you are
  concerned about your symptoms.

Reference information from Hastings & Prince Edward Counties Health Unit

August 31, 2009 - Letter from Hastings & Prince Edward Counties Health Unit to parents/guardians and school board employees

Q & As about H1N1 Flu Virus (pdf)

October 21, 2009 - pH1N1 Influenza A update (pdf)

Reference information from Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care

Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care H1N1 fact sheet for schools (pdf)

Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 in Elementary and Secondary Schools (pdf)

Handwashing flyer (pdf)

H1N1 flu virus information for employers of pregnant women (web page)

H1N1 flu virus information for pregnant women (web page)

New! Influenza vaccination clinics and flu assessment centres

Memo from Dr. Arlene King, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Province of Ontario Council of Ontario Medical Officers of Health regarding consistent practice for the prevention and management of Pandemic H1N1 2009 (pH1N1) in the elementary and secondary school settings (pdf) - October 29, 2009

For more information, please contact:
Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, 613-966-1170 or 1-800-267-4350, extension 2354, or by email to directors.office@hpedsb.on.ca