February 4, 2005

Dear Parents/Guardians:

There have been confirmed cases of the influenza virus in the Elmwood-Murdock schools. Influenza is a virus that infects the nose, throat, windpipe and lungs. The virus is highly contagious and is spread from one person to another by coughing, sneezing, or talking. The symptoms of influenza include fever, chills, muscles aches, congestion, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Many different viruses can cause symptoms similar to those of influenza, but influenza is more likely to cause high fever, chills, and pneumonia. It is extremely important that students who are displaying one or all of these symptoms be kept at home till the student is symptom free.

During times like this, when the schools are experiencing high number of illness, it is imperative that the schools maintain a healthy, learning environment for all. In turn, a student may be sent home with a low-grade temperature or not one at all, if the child is displaying other symptoms. Please be aware of the symptoms and keep your child at home if they are showing any of them. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Joan Knott, RN

School Nurse