Several area schools have experienced higher than normal absentee rates due to students with flu-like symptoms. A small number of these cases have been confirmed as H1N1, some have been informally diagnosed as likely or probable H1N1, and others have been pretty typical seasonal flu illnesses. As of 10/22/09, we have not had any confirmed cases of H1N1 at Friess Lake, but we have had a couple of students who were diagnosed with probable H1N1.

The following is from the most recent communiqué I received from Washington County:

Currently, influenza activity has increased in all five regions of the state and is higher than normal for this time of year. There is no indication the H1N1 virus has changed or is more severe than in the spring, although hospitalizations are on the rise due to widespread illness.

For those individuals who are ill and are tested for influenza, approximately 23% actually have influenza. This indicates that a variety of other illnesses are circulating through Wisconsin, and not all influenza-like symptoms are influenza. Of the influenza viruses circulating in the state, 99% have been confirmed as H1N1. Therefore, it is recommended that people continue to follow good hygiene protocols and receive the H1N1 vaccine as it becomes available.

At what absentee threshold should a school district consider closure? (October 15, 2009)
School closure is a difficult decision that is highly complex and specific to the circumstances. The factors that schools and the health department may consider in a school closure include:
·         the school building average attendance rate for this time of year,
·         the current attendance pattern over the week prior to the current date,
·         type of symptoms reported by the students and school personnel who are out ill,
·         number of students hospitalized or confirmed cases of H1N1
·         number of students in attendance who are high risk for poor outcomes including pregnant teens, students under five years of age, and children and youth with special health care needs, and
·         the social disruption caused by closing schools.
With the many factors involved in the decision to close a school, a specific threshold or percentage cannot be given for closure. Schools should consult with local health departments in making the school closure decision. Many sources recommend a three- to five-day closure to significantly interrupt the transmission rates. Students should be encouraged to stay home and seek medical care as needed.

The schools that have closed have generally had absentee rates of about 40%, with most of the missing students reporting flu-like symptoms. Our absentee rates are higher than normal for this time of year, but are still well under 10%. Some neighboring districts have reported absentee rates in the range of 17-22%.

The reality is that we are facing several months of uncertainty. It is possible that we will be forced to close at some point during the school year. We will do the best we can to keep people informed of changing conditions, but the reality is that schools have closed without much advance warning. Now is the time to prepare contingency plans for your family if Friess Lake were to close school.

Vaccine Clinics - Dates & Times