Two local school districts–including this one and NorthEast ISD–that I know have reported swine flu infections–1 student. NEISD sent out this message:

North East ISD has been working very closely with health officials in an effort to develop the best action and response plan concerning the outbreak of H1N1 Flu (swine flu) in our area. The health and safety of students and staff is our number one priority, and this letter is to inform you of the latest developments.

The district was notified on May 7 at about 5:30 p.m. by the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (SAMHD) that a four-year-old Longs Creek Elementary School student has been diagnosed with H1N1 flu. The identify of the child was not shared with NEISD.

This is the only confirmed case within the district, and the threat of infection from this case has passed. We are following the new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the SAMHD to not close schools or cancel events. The district will not consider closing any schools until directed to do so by SAMHD.

Since we learned of the H1N1 threat, NEISD maintenance crews have been thoroughly cleaning all our facilities. In addition, Kleenhanz dispensers — an antimicrobial towelette system — were installed last year at campuses and district facilities. These towelettes are a good alternative to hand-washing when soap and water are not available, and we encourage students and staff to continue using Kleenhanz to help prevent the spread of germs.

We are taking every action to inform our parents, staff and community about our actions throughout this public health concern. As always, you can get the latest information at www.neisd.net.

We urge you to follow good health habits that will help reduce your risk of contracting the flu.

1. 1. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating and after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
3. 2. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away and wash your hands immediately. You can also cough or sneeze into your upper arm area. This helps keep germs away from the hands.
5. 3. If you begin to have flu-like symptoms including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting you should contact your health care provider without delay and follow his/her advice.

We will relay any additional news and updates to you as they become available.

For more information about Swine Influenza, visit http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/general_info.htm or call the SAMHD Swine Flu Hotline at 210-207-5779.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

One of the comments made on the news story via WOAI linked above is a question I have going around in my head:

I am confused, how long has the district known that this student has had the flu since “the threat of infection has passed?”

How long has NEISD known about this case?

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