Eugene schools closed by flu open Wednesday

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Story Created: May 5, 2009 at 3:47 PM PST

Story Updated: May 5, 2009 at 3:47 PM PST

This is a press release courtesy Eugene School District

Three 4J schools that were closed as a precautionary measure today will return to their usual schedules tomorrow.

Kelly Middle School, Harris/Eastside Elementary School, and Charlemagne at Fox Hollow were closed today to allow public health officials to investigate the possibility of flu transmissions. No indication of widespread flu cases was found, and public health officials have recommended that the schools be reopened. All 4J schools will be open on their regular schedules tomorrow

Federal, state and local health officials are now recommending that schools should not be closed based on a small number of H1N1 flu cases. As the Influenza A (H1N1) situation has evolved, health officials have gathered new information on the disease’s severity. Most U.S. cases have not been severe and are comparable to seasonal influenza. The Centers for Disease Control today released new guidelines, saying "school closure is not advised unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school’s ability to function."

Public health officials emphasize that students and staff with influenza-like illness (fever with a cough or sore throat) should contact their healthcare provider and alert their school. People sick with flu-like symptoms need to stay home and not attend school or go into the community except to seek medical care for at least 7 days, even if symptoms resolve sooner. If the person is sill sick after 7 days, they should continue to stay home until at least 24 hours after symptoms have resolved. Ill students should not attend alternative childcare or congregate in other settings. Family members of ill individuals should stay home if they are experiencing any flu symptoms.

Families should continue to emphasize good hygiene habits: washing hands, covering coughs, and staying home when ill. Eugene School District 4J will continue to monitor absentee rates and flu-like illnesses among students and staff, and will remain in close contact with public health officials for health and safety guidance.

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