PUSD Superintendent Assures Parents, Students: No Swine Flu

Pasadena Unified School District Superintendent Edwin Diaz worked to calm fears today about reported cases of swine flu in the Pasadena public school system.

“I want to assure students, staff and families that we have no reported cases of the swine flu in Pasadena,” Diaz said.  “PUSD health officials are maintaining constant contact with the City of Pasadena Public Health Department, and our school sites have been provided specific directions, information and guidance to assist them in monitoring this situation.

“If we receive any confirmed cases of swine flu at a school, we will follow directives to close the school, and families notified immediately. Please remain calm and rest assured that the safety of our students and staff remains our priority.”

Parents and community members may obtain the latest information about swine flu prevention and response at www.cdc.gov.  Additional information about flu prevention and disease control is also available from the City of Pasadena Public Health Department, at www.cityofpasadena.net/publichealth.

PUSD health officials encourage the community to take the following common-sense precautions to stay healthy:

● If you have flu-like symptoms (temperature over 100 degrees, coughing, sore throat, fatigue or body aches) AND if you have traveled to Mexico or been in contact with someone who has traveled to Mexico, please see a doctor immediately to be tested for swine flu.

● Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw tissue in the trash after you use it.

● Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

● Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

For updates and additional information, please visit www.pusd.us.