Many thanks to our Englewood Cliffs parents and community for the passing of our 2009-2010 School Budget!

Message for the Superintendent: H1N1 (Swine) Influenza

Dear Parents,

Over the past several weeks we have heard much about the H1N1 (Swine) influenza. As is our normal practice, we carefully monitor the health of our students and staff, we provide for a safe and clean environment, and reinforce proper personal hygiene with our students.

Our nursing staff has been “on top” of the issue of H1N1 influenza and have kept me informed of the health status of our school community. To date, there have been no concerns brought to my attention.

Let me assure you that should we have an occurrence of the H1N1 influenza, we will take the necessary steps to maintain the health and safety of all of our students and staff. We have been in contact with the office of the NJ Commissioner of Education and with the medical staff of the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services to reinforce our plan of action should we have a suspicion or an occurrence of the influenza in school. 

I would like to point out that this strain of influenza is similar to the seasonal influenza that we experience each year. The symptoms of the seasonal influenza may include; fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, sore muscles and feeling tired. The H1N1 influenza has additional symptoms such as; nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

We do hear the word “pandemic” used and that may cause you great concern. Please be aware that the word refers to the geography (where it has occurred in the world) and not the severity of the influenza.

What can you do to try to safeguard your children and families? Do the kinds of things your parents taught you when you were a child…cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, wash you hands thoroughly and often, and if you don’t feel well, stay home from work or school.

I have listed several web sites below that are informative and may be helpful to us. As always, please feel free to give us a call should you have any particular concerns regarding this situation. As necessary, I will be in communication with you to report any new information.

Sincerely,
Dominic F. Mucci
Superintendent of Schools

• H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and You
• Governor Corzine Announces Five Confirmed Cases of H1N1 Influenza in New Jersey
• H1N1 Influenza Information (NJ Dept of Health and Senior Services)