Health Department Prepares Schools for H1N1

Westfield is unlikely to close any schools this year because of the H1N1 flu pandemic.

Health Officer Megan Avallone said a closure similar to the one which occurred at Lincoln School in June, is unlikely to happen because of new guidelines set forth by state education and health officials. She said the state has made clear to local health officials that schools should not be closed for flu absences this year, because of the likelihood of larger absences.

Last June, Lincoln School was closed for several days after several students and teachers in one special education class took ill. Avallone said at the time the high percentage in one classroom, along with the young age of the students, led her to advise Schools Superintendent Margaret Dolan to close the school. None of the students and teachers at the school were officially diagnosed with H1N1.

Avallone has been meeting with school administrators in all eight towns served by the regional health department in order to make plans for the H1N1 flu this year. Until a vaccine comes in, she is looking to step up prevention efforts. She said a handwashing education campaign will be implemented in order to prevent the spread of germs. The handwashing education program will be more prevelant for the younger grades.

In addition, schools are updating Web sites to provide in-depth H1N1 prevention information and tips families can employ at home to prevent a flu outbreak in the schools. This will include handwashing, nutrition and keeping children away from ill adults.

Outside of handwashing, school officials will be promoting the use of tissues and the disposal of used tissues in order to prevent the spread of germs. Disinfectants will also be used in classrooms. During the back-to-school nights later this month, Avallone said teachers will be providing H1N1 information to parents. This is part of the overall goal of the prevention program.

"We are looking to make sure the kids who are out sick are mildly sick," she said.