H1N1 Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about H1N1 and Katy ISD respose. If you have a questions that is not addressed here send it to communications@katyisd.org and we will get back to you with a response.
What preventative measures are being taken by Katy ISD to prevent the spread H1N1 among students? Consistent with the district’s infection control program, school nurses are monitoring student illness and teachers are stressing the importance of good hygiene practices such as hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes.
How long should my child stay out of school should he or she exhibit flu like symptoms? Students, flu-like illness (fever with a cough or sore throat) should not attend school for at least 24 hours after fever is gone. Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.
What are the signs of flu? The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, the presence of these symptoms does not necessarily mean swine flu. Additional information on swine flu can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/key_facts.htm.
Should the sibling of a child exhibiting flu-like symptoms stay home as well? At this time, Health Department officials are not recommending that siblings of sick students remain at home, unless they themselves are exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
Will Katy ISD close school should a case of H1N1 be confirmed at a campus? The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is not advising school dismissal for a suspected or confirmed case of novel influenza A (H1N1) and, in general, is not advised unless there is a magnitude of faculty or student absenteeism that interferes with the school’s ability to function.
Can I send hand sanitizers to school with my child? Students are allowed to bring hand sanitizers to school for their own personal use. Students should not, however, bring to school surface disinfectants such as Lysol spray, Clorox wipes or any other chemical disinfectant. For the safety of all students and staff, Katy ISD must follow strict Hazardous Communications regulations pertaining to the use of chemical cleaners and uses only those approved by the EPA for classroom disinfecting. We appreciate your help in assisting us in keeping our classrooms safe for all students.
How will the district handle exemptions for secondary students who may have been out due to the flu? The exemption policy has been reviewed and the district will take into account any lost days that are due to the flu. While it is important to be in class, we encourage parents and students to put health issues before attendance and to stay home when sick.