Schools launch multi-pronged strategy to deal with swine flu

In the wake of the growing number of HIN1 cases and the death of a school child in Pune, city schools have launched multi-pronged strategies, including strict implementation of the ‘no-school-if-sick’ rule.

The otherwise common cold, cough and flu are no longer being viewed lightly with schools insisting that students with such symptoms stay home and ensure a complete medical examination.

“We have been asking parents not to send their wards to school if they are sick and are displaying bouts of coughing, sneezing and running nose,” said authorities at the St Joseph’s Boys High School, a leading school in the city.

Several schools have begun taking a serious view of the issue and have had periodic checks to ensure that any student showing symptoms of fever and running nose are not attending classes. “Any child found with fever and attending classes, was promptly send home after calling up the parents,” said Mercy Jacob, vice principal, Bishop Cotton Boys’ High School.

The ‘no-school-if-sick-rule’ is being strictly adhered to across schools as a precautionary measure. “We are taking no chances though it could turn out to be a simple flu,” said the head of a school.

“Though some parents send their child to school because they fear their child may miss lessons, we insist the child cannot attend classes till fully cured,” said Indira Williams, principal of the Baldwin Girls’ High School.