August 4, 2009
Dear BCHS Parents:
Over the last few days, a few students involved in Bath County High School activities have been experiencing a respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms including fever and nausea. Please be advised that while no students have been hospitalized or formally diagnosed with a specific flu strain, school staff have been in touch with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) since first learning of the situation late Monday afternoon. Following the advice of the VDH, Bath County Public Schools will maintain our present athletic & event schedule.
We are all reminded that this year’s ‘flu season’ has extended into summer months, and we want to do all we can to help keep our community healthy by practicing prevention tips such as:
· Encourage your children to wash their hands – several times per day – with soap and water for 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.
· Teach your children to cough and sneeze into a tissue or into the inside of their elbow/shirt sleeve. Tissues should be discarded after a single use and hands washed.
· Children who are sick should stay home from school events and stay away from other people until they are no longer contagious.
The flu going around the last few months continues to spread, though symptoms for most folks are not severe. Please remember that flu symptoms may vary somewhat, but often include:
· Fever, Chills
· Cough, Sore Throat
· Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea
· Headache, Body Aches, Fatigue
Your health care provider should be contacted immediately if you believe you or other family members may have the flu. The school should also be notified when your child is sick. Please be assured that we are doing everything possible to keep your child/children safe at school. We will be closely monitoring the situation and following the guidance of the VDH.
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s participation at BCHS band/athletic practices and events, please contact Mr. Pitard at Bath County High School.
Sincerely,
K. David Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent