H1N1 Cases: Several school authorities across Delhi have issued advisories to parents urging them not to send their children to school if they have flu-like symptoms, amid a rise in seasonal influenza and H1N1 cases in the national capital.
In view of rising swine flu infections in recent weeks, the Delhi government issued a public health advisory, urging people to follow basic respiratory hygiene measures. Authorities have advised residents to wear masks in crowded places, wash their hands frequently, avoid close contact with people who have respiratory infections, and seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms become severe or persistent.
According to the health department's data, Delhi has reported more than 1,777 H1N1 cases this year, with 114 new infections recorded on Thursday alone.
In an official health advisory, Tagore International School stated:
"In view of the recent increase in cases of viral fever, flu-like illness, including sore throat respiratory infections and H1N1, parents are strictly advised to keep children at home if they are unwell or have a fever and seek medical advice, as appropriate."
The school authority further noted that "sending an unwell child to school can put other students at risk of infection and may lead to serious health complications".
"Parents are requested to strictly adhere to this advisory and send children to school only when they are fully fit to attend," it added.
The National Progressive Schools' Conference announced simple and necessary steps for students to stop the spread of swine flu (H1N1) seasonal flu. The advisory has asked students to avoid crowded places, avoid touching their face, and practice good hand hygiene.
The official advisory has also asked parents to keep their children at home if they have flu-like symptoms.
The official notice has also asked students and parents to inform the class teacher if a child develops flu-like symptoms.
Speaking with NDTV, Aprajita Gautam, President, Delhi Parents Association, said that "while this is a welcome step, exams are scheduled to begin next month. Given the rising number of cases, we urge the administration to consider postponing the examination schedule." "Students should not have to face the additional stress of thinking: my exams are approaching and now I have fallen ill,” she added.
