Maplebrook Elementary in Atascocita closed due to suspected swine flu case

By OBSERVER STAFF
Updated: 05.01.09
The following information was posted on the Humble Independent School District Friday, May 1:

Maplebrook Elementary will closed until May 18 as a child has been diagnosed with a probable case of H1N1. Thankfully, the child is recovering and doing well. As is customary, the Center for Disease Control has directed that the probable case be treated as if it is a confirmed diagnosis. At the CDC’s direction, the school will close for 14 calendar days. Teachers will be asked to report back to work on May 11 th.

Symptoms of H1N1 may include fever (temperature over 101), body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Please contact your child’s medical provider if your child experiences symptoms.

One of the most effective ways to limit the spread of flu is through social distancing, which is based on scientific knowledge of how the influenza virus spread. By closing the school, health officials believe the number of people who become sick may be contained.

Steps that you can take, as a family, to prevent getting and spreading influenza, include:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners also are effective.

Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Stay home from work or school if you feel sick and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Humble ISD will request a waiver from the Texas Education Agency so that the missed days will not need to be made up. This will be done to limit the disruption to the lives of our students and employees any more than necessary.

On campuses, custodians will be spending additional time disinfecting the nurse’s office, athletic areas, and door knobs, student desks, cafeteria tables, etc. Please continue to check the Humble ISD web site for the latest information and updates as this is a fluid situation.