Second H1N1 wave: Civic body asks schools to be vigilant

St Vincent’s High School Principal Father Mario Fernandes said the meeting highlighted the need to be alert and vigilant about swine flu. Principals were asked to sensitise teachers and also create awareness among parents so that they exercise caution if their wards show swine flu symptoms.

“The weather is conducive for swine flu virus and there is a need to be alert and initiate precautionary measures,” Zagade said,adding that the civic administration could tackle the situation effectively in last few months mainly due to cooperation from educational institutes and the health staff.

The municipal commissioner urged the school authorities to carry out screening of students in the morning itself and refer the student to a medical practitioner in case any symptoms were found. “The medical practitioner should also recommend Tamiflu to the student if need be,” Zagade said. The students should be educated on washing their hands,drinking ample water,maintaining a healthy diet,taking precautions during sneezing and coughing,avoiding shake hands,etc he added.

Zagade said gathering of students during lunch break should be avoided,special attention should be given to students coming via the school bus and those with symptoms should be compulsorily sent on seven-day leave. Meanwhile,the PMC would carry out public awareness campaign on swine flu through street plays and discussion across the city,he said.

The civic health chief also asked the representatives from private primary,secondary schools,coaching classes and educational institutes gathered there to seek the help of the civic administration if needed.