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Today, 7/4/2009

High: 83 | Low: 63

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Tomorrow, 7/5/2009

High: 82 | Low: 60

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Daily Announcements

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

July 2, 2009

The Jackson School District community is saddened by the death of a Holman Elementary School student this week and offered counseling services to our parents, students and staff.

CLICK HERE for a resource that may assist parents in talking to their children about the loss of a classmate. Parents who need additional resources are welcome to contact the district guidance office at 732-833-4638.

This morning, the Ocean County Health Department confirmed that this student tested positive for the H1N1 influenza virus but also had an underlying medical condition.

We realize this news may cause a certain amount of anxiety and concern for our parents and staff due to the presence of confirmed H1N1 influenza. We understand that our parents may be nervous, but it is important to remember that every conversation we have had with health officials indicates that most people who have become ill with this virus have experienced typical flu symptoms and have recovered without complications.

We cannot go into detail about this student for privacy reasons, but we can say that included in the Ocean County Health Department's release was the fact that this child had other underlying medical conditions. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 influenza can cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

The most important thing we can all do is continue to practice the hygiene etiquette recommended by health officials. This includes recommendations to:

Wash your hands with soap and water especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw away the tissue or cough or sneeze in your sleeve.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Try to avoid contact with people who are ill.
If you are sick, stay home.
Wipe common household/workplace surfaces with disinfectants whose labels report virus-killing properties.
Stay informed about the situation as it evolves from credible sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov), the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (www.nj.gov/health) or the Ocean County Health Department (www.ochd.org).