Update for Special Schools – Swine Flu

24 October 2009

Dear Principal

Since the outbreak of Swine Flu (H1N1) earlier this year, the Public Health Agency and the Department of Education, together with partners in education, have worked closely to provide the wider education sector with advice and guidance.

As you will be aware, the number of Swine Flu cases are increasing in Northern Ireland, and are expected to increase further in the coming months. Recent events have also sadly drawn attention to the particular needs of children who are at increased risk of complications as a result of swine flu.

It is worth reinforcing earlier advice from the Public Health Agency: maintain good hygiene throughout the school; remain vigilant for signs of flu-like illness amongst pupils and staff; and ensure that if anyone does have flu-like symptoms, that arrangements are made for them to go home and, if necessary, telephone the GP or Out of Hours service for advice.

National advice is that in some situations in Special Schools (not mainstream schools), because of the additional risk that Swine Flu may pose to some pupils, that anti-viral treatment, such as Tamiflu, should be offered when Swine Flu is known to be circulating in the school.

You will also be aware that the Public Health Agency in conjunction with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety has prioritised children at risk of complications as a result of swine flu for immediate vaccination. Over time, the vaccination programme will be rolled out to the general population. It is, however, worth noting that protection will take some time (approximately 1-2 weeks) following inoculation to be fully effective. It is therefore important to remain vigilant for signs of flu-like illness throughout this time. Vaccination does not provide total protection so that it is possible to catch swine flu after vaccination, although this is much less likely.

If you are aware of Swine Flu cases within the school, or are concerned about high levels of absence because of flu-like illness, you should seek advice form the Public Health Agency, Telephone Number 028 9055 3993.  Please note that this number is for professional use only and is in addition to the Public Helpline number.

I appreciate that this can be an anxious time for staff and parents.  Please be assured that Swine Flu is a mild illness for the vast majority of people.  However, if you have concerns, please seek advice as outlined.

We will keep you updated on further developments, in particular regarding arrangements for the vaccination programme.  In the meantime further useful information can be found on the following:

Public Health Agency – www.publichealth.hscni.net

Health Protection Agency – www.hpa.org.uk

The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety – www.dhsspsni.gov.uk

The Department of Education - www.deni.gov.uk

and the Northern Ireland Swine Flu Helpline is 0800 0514 142.

Yours sincerely

Will Haire

Permanent Secretary

Department of Education

Dr Richard Smithson

Consultant in Communicable Disease Control

Public Health Centre