H1N1 Flu & U.S. Schools: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

A severe form of influenza known as H1N1, commonly being called swine flu, has health officials around the world concerned. In the United States, the outbreak of H1N1 has prompted school closures and cancellation of school-related events. As the flu spreads, the Department of Education encourages school leaders, parents and students to know how to take action to reduce the spread of the virus and report illness. Schools may be leading indicators and amplifiers of disease outbreaks, so it is important that school leaders watch out for illness among students and staff and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of this virus. To reduce the spread of this new flu in the community, schools may consider dismissing students when there is an outbreak in their community. Students and parents should take common-sense measures to prevent contracting and spreading the flu. The Department of Education (ED), in consultation with CDC and other federal public health experts, has attempted to answer here some common questions about H1N1 that are circulating among members of the education community. Topics include: (1) General Guidance for School Leaders; (2) School Closure; (3) Exposure to Mexico; (4) Isolating Confirmed Flu Cases; (5) Sharing Information; and (6) Online Resources for Schools regarding Flu and Public Health.