With the recent outbreak of swine flu in neighboring schools, panic has struck many parents, and a need for prevention has become evident. Several Cleveland schools, including Shaker Heights High School and Solon Middle School, have had multiple cases of the flu. The list of schools with reported cases of the flu is growing at an alarming rate, and The Plain Dealer reported the first Ohio death caused by the virus in July.

St. Edward started preparing for the virus before the school year started. Classrooms have been lined with alcohol-based hand cleaners, which are supposed to be used by students after they cough or sneeze. Coughing and sneezing are the leading ways that the virus is spread, so it is important for students to wash their hands frequently and use the hand cleaners. The virus can also be transferred when someone comes in contact with an object that contains the virus and then touches his or her face. Students are advised to not touch their faces during this flu season.

Some symptoms of the virus include fever, body aches, chills, cough, and sore throat. Schools have been instructed to recommend that students with flu-like symptoms, especially fever, stay home 24 hours after the fever has passed. The administration hopes that through adequate prevention, St. Edward will keep the flu locked out. 

Source: http://tinyurl.com/mctbpb