Letter about flu

[Myers]

June 12,2009
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Staff,
We were informed late yesterday afternoon that two Wappingers Central
School District
students have confirmed cases of the Novel H1N1 influenza (Swine Flu).
Dutchess County
health officials have instructed us not to identify the school(s)
attended by these students in
order to maintain confidentiality. County health officials have
informed us that
identification of students and/or schools at this point in time serves
no purpose and will not
decrease anyone's risk of contracting the flu since it is so
widespread throughout Dutchess
County.
Dr. Michael C. Caldwell, Dutchess County Commissioner of Health,
reported: "We know
H1N1 is widespread in Dutchess County and we have been working
diligently with our
County government partners, area physicians, hospitals, schools, day
cares, and businesses.
We do expect to see additional cases just as we would during the
typical flu season. There
are some common-sense steps people can and should take to stay healthy
and reduce and
control the spread of infection."

I would ask that you please refer to the recent letter from Dr.
Pennoyer and Dr. Caldwell
dated June 8, 2009 for more information on the common-sense steps
referenced by Dr.
Caldwell. This letter was sent home with your child on Wednesday.

The Wappingers Central School District continues to work closely with
the Dutchess
County Department of Health. They have recommended that we continue to
carefully
track students who are reporting flu-like symptoms. We are also
maintaining our vigilant
cleaning procedures. We have been assured that this flu is no more
severe than the
common flu.

If youwouldlikemore informationabouttheH1N1flu visittheCountywebsite
at
www.dutchessny.gov and click on the Swine Flu icon. If you or a family
member becomes
ill with flu-like symptoms, you should contact your health care
provider for guidance.
Sincerely,

Richard A. Powell
Superintendent of Schools