For the past few weeks we have been closely monitoring the health status of our students in terms of assessing the number of students exhibiting flu-like symptoms. While we were fortunate for a while, I need to share with you that as of late Monday, June 1, 2009, we have been notified of at least 3 students out sick with the flu at the Middle/High School, 3 students out sick with the flu at Franklin School and 1 student out sick with the flu at Long Memorial School.

 
Under current guidelines, through the Bergen County Department of Health and the Bergen County Public Health Planning Office, we have learned officials are no longer requesting patients be tested for the H1N1 influenza virus as they feel this extended flu season has manifested in milder symptoms as compared to the flu we experienced this past winter. However, I wish to ensure you that the upgraded cleaning and disinfecting procedures instituted at all our schools over two weeks ago will continue to be used for the balance of this school year. All our schools are equipped with a general purpose neutral disinfectant manufactured by ENVIRO SOLUTIONS 64. This cleaning solution is a non-alkaline, neutral PH cleaner that disinfects, cleans and deodorizes. This product is generally used in hospitals and is considered under state guidelines as a “green” product. The cleaner not only disinfects, but kills a high percentage of various bacteria including Influenza A.
 
IMPORTANT UPDATE: The Saddle Brook School District will continue to follow the guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control and is requesting that any student who has been diagnosed with Influenza stay home for a minimum of seven (7) days. In addition, we request a physician’s written clearance accompany the return of the previously ill student.
 
If parents or guardians observe any flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, body aches, chills and fatigue) we ask you to keep the child home from school and call your doctor. While we will continue to monitor this round of Influenza cases, at this time we have no intention of closing schools.
 
To stay up to date on this issue, the Department of Health and Senior Services continues to have a 24-hour toll-free information line for both the general public and health care providers. That number is 1-866-321-9571. You can also stay informed by checking various websites regarding H1N1 Influenza, such as: www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/ , www.nj.gov.health .
 
Thank you for your attention and in supporting our efforts to keep students safe and healthy.
 
Sincerely,
Harry A. Groveman Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools