| Introduction
There is a consensus of scientific advice which indicates that a flu pandemic will occur in the UK, though there is no way of predicting when such
an event will occur. The purpose of this plan is to provide guidance in planning for flu pandemic, which might lead to the closure of the school.
‘On 11th June 2009 the World Health Organisation (WHO) raised its alert level to 6 as a result of the international spread of the swine flu virus.
This indicates that the WHO considers a global pandemic to be imminent.’
Wykeham House does not need to take any drastic action at the present time. However, we are prepared in case the swine flu virus spreads further
and begins to significantly affect schools in the UK.
Wykeham House is using guidance notes specifically prepared for independent schools it is also following Government guidance: this guidance is
available from www.teachernet.gov.uk/humanflupandemic. In the event that the Government issues emergency plans for schools, these plans must be
adhered to.
Swine Flu and the Symptoms
Symptoms: The symptoms of swine flu are broadly the same as those of ordinary flu, but may be more severe and cause more serious complications.
The typical symptoms are:
sudden fever, and
sudden cough.
Other symptoms may include:
headache,
tiredness,
chills,
aching muscles,
limb or joint pain,
diarrhoea or stomach upset,
sore throat,
runny nose,
sneezing, and
loss of appetite.
Current Advice: The NHS currently advise that someone who has recently travelled to Mexico or North America and has flu-like symptoms should stay
at home and contact either their GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647. this information has been passed to parents in one of the regular newsletters.
General Principles
In implementing the school plan the following general principles will be applied:
The School will remain open, providing education for as long as possible, or until a decision is made to close the School.
The Trustees will ultimately be responsible for deciding when to close (and re-open) the School if the need arises. However, this responsibility
may be delegated to the Headmistress.
During any period of closure the School will continue to provide some form of education by remote methods for the duration of the closure.
The School will use electronic methods as far as possible to contact parents regarding any closure.
Medical Room
The medical room, which is used for the care of pupils who feel ill during school hours, is well stocked and prepared for pupils with the symptoms of flu.
Supplies and cleaning
The School cleaning has been reassessed to prevent the spread of infection. New posters have been placed in the toilets regarding hand washing.
Tissues are available in all classrooms. Door handles, banisters, keyboards, telephones are all being cleaned on a regular basis to inhibit the spread
of infection.
Wykeham House School
June 2009
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