Related Files: US Govt H1N1 Flu Resources for Schools.pdf

As America goes back to school, we wanted to remind you of resources the federal government has made available to help school administrators, health workers, educators, parents, and guardians prepare for the expected return of H1N1 flu this fall. The virus disproportionately affects young people, so it is critical that schools know how to help prevent the flu's spread and be ready to respond to outbreaks. Health and safety should always come first, but if students are dismissed, continuing learning is also important.

Thank you for sharing these resources with your colleagues at the district and school levels. You can find even more information at www.flu.gov, a one-stop resource from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Questions about the guidance and recommendations for schools can be sent to flu@ed.gov.

Best wishes for this new school year, and thank you for all you do to keep our nation's children healthy and learning.

Arne Duncan
U.S. Secretary of Education
Kathleen Sebelius
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services

Preparing for the Flu: A Communication Toolkit for Schools

(including fact sheets for teachers and parents)

Technical Report for State and Local Public Health Officials and Schools Administrators on CDC Guidance for School (K-12) Responses

Report a Flu-Related School Dismissal

Continuity of Learning Recommendations for Schools (K-12) During Extended Student Absence or School Dismissal

Continuity of Learning-Preparing for the Flu: Questions and Answers for Schools http://www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/emergencyplan/pandemic/guidance/continuity-qa.pdf