Stanstead College is responding to two reported cases of influenza-like illness. As of Wednesday afternoon, one student was in the Health Centre displaying flu-like symptoms while the other is recovering at home.
In accordance with public health guidelines, because the cases are not severe, the students have not been hospitalized nor been tested for H1N1. The student in the Health Centre will remain in isolation and will be closely monitored for the next several days. The other student will remain at home until fully recovered.
At present, Stanstead College is continuing its day-to-day routine, including athletic events and extracurricular activities. Should this situation change, we will advise parents immediately.
We will also continue to stress the importance of prevention and vigilance among our school community. Since the beginning of the school year, extra hand sanitizers have been installed throughout the school. Signs have also been posted in school buildings reminding people to wash hands, cover their coughs, not share water bottles, etc.
Based on guidelines established by the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization regarding H1N1 influenza, Stanstead College is making the following recommendations:
- Any student who displays flu-like symptoms should contact the school nurse immediately. This includes day students, who should contact the nurse from home by calling (819) 876-7891, ext. 264.
- Boarding students who display flu-like symptoms will have their condition verified by health officials and, if deemed appropriate, be kept in isolation in accordance with the school policy.
- Day students or boarding students whose homes are within reasonable distance of Stanstead College should remain home for at least seven days.
- Any non-member of Stanstead College (visitor, parent) who displays flu-like symptoms should avoid visiting the school for at least seven days after symptoms first appear. If they have come in contact with anyone displaying flu-like symptoms, they are strongly advised against visiting the school.
If you have any questions about whether you or someone in your family has the flu, you should consult the H1N1 Decision Chart (PDF) or contact a health official. The Quebec government’s Self-Care Guide (PDF) is also a useful document. General information on H1N1 is available through the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Parents are encouraged to check our website frequently for updates and changes to our policy.
