Plano ISD Prepares
for Cold and Flu Season

September 21, 2009

Working in partnership with families, students, employees and health agencies, Plano ISD is taking measures to maintain healthy schools during cold and flu season. The district is following the recommendations of the Collin County Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC www.cdc.gov) during this time of heightened awareness. Additionally, Plano ISD Security Services and Health Services departments participate in weekly conference calls with state departments of education, health and security on relevant topics of public safety.

Plano ISD is reporting student absences that are attributed to “influenza-like illness” to the Collin County Health Department, but we are unable to track Novel H1N1 cases.

You can help during cold and flu season by monitoring symptoms in your family. If your child develops flu-like symptoms such as coughing, fever and/or sore throat, please keep them at home until their fever is gone for 24 hours without the assistance of fever-reducing medication.

District Measures

The safety and well-being of our students and staff are of the utmost importance to us. The following information has been compiled to keep you up to date regarding the district’s procedures for cold and flu season. If you have any questions please reference the CDC, your personal health care provider or your school nurse. We will be sure to inform our Plano ISD families and staff of any changes or updates affecting the district.

Immunizations

• It is suggested that parents consult their healthcare provider as it is recommended that children and adults choose to be vaccinated for the seasonal flu and Novel H1N1.

Custodial Services

GCA Services Group is observing the following cleaning schedule, in addition to their regular duties:

• Door knobs/handles (3-4 times daily depending on location)
• Water fountains (3-4 times daily)
• Restrooms (3-4 times daily)
• Cafeteria tables (3-4 times daily)
• Gym/athletic areas
• Locker rooms
• Showers
• Office reception countertops
• Clinics
• Desktops (Tuesday & Thursdays if free of paper)
• Stack chairs at end of day upon request

Transportation Services

• Sanitizing entire interior surface of all buses twice daily
• Using recommended topical agent, Wex-Cide 128