SWINE FLU UPDATE

You will be aware that the World Health Organisation has recently classified the Swine Flu outbreak as a World Pandemic (Level 6 Alert). Since then the Western Education and Library Board has been working closely with the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety and the Department of Education in developing contingency plans in preparation for any increase of cases in Northern Ireland.

While the virus has been shown as a mild strain, there are increased concerns that any second phase will most likely coincide with the seasonal flu in the Autumn and will emerge in a more virulent form.

Current research has shown that the virus will spread very effectively within the school age groups. Although Limavady High School will largely be closed July and August there are still many opportunities for infection within holiday destinations.

We have been asked to remain vigilant during the holiday period and, in particular, in late August and early September. Therefore any pupil or member of staff retuning from high risk areas such as the United States, Canada, Australia and parts of the United Kingdom should not return to school in September if experiencing Flu like symptoms.