HAYDEN, Idaho--The Panhandle Health District reports school absentee rates in some North Idaho schools are double and triple the normal rates for this time of year.
The district cautions that parents with children with underlying health conditions should take precautions.
The district reports most absences are attributed to H1N1 influenza, commonly known as swine flu. The district said that While most people who stay home and take care of themselves recover from the flu, anyone with health problems that weaken the immune system is at risk of complications if they catch the virus.
Swine flu is the only flu virus circulating in North Idaho at this time, according to the district and Panhandle Health District officials advise anyone with symptoms should stay home. Officials report the virus is contagious and spreads easily.
The first shipment of vaccine to protect against H1N1 arrived in North Idaho last week. On Oct. 19, The Panhandle Health District will begin vaccinating children in area schools. Only children with permission slips signed by their parents will be vaccinated. Vaccinations in the schools will continue through the first week in December.
Children are a vaccination priority because H1N1 has hit the under-25 age group in the greatest numbers. Starting Oct. 19, vaccinations in flu mist and shot form will be given in the schools. Schools will notify parents when it’s their school’s turn for vaccinations.
Children with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, sneezing, headaches, muscle aches, chills and heavy fatigue should stay home from school until their fever is gone without the aid of fever-reducing medication. Parents should be aware of warning signs that indicate a child needs medical care immediately:
Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Not waking up or interacting
Excessive irritability
Flu-like symptoms that improve then return with fever and a worse cough
Fever with a rash
Public vaccination providers, dates and locations will be listed on the PHD website, www.phd1.idaho.gov.
