From Our Sick Bay 

Even though we're heading toward the end of winter,  we are continuing to see an increase in cases of Influenza A within our school community. 

Unfortunately, for a number of students, the illness has been quite significant, with some needing several days at home to rest and recover.

Please be assured that our staff are taking a range of practical steps each day to help minimise the spread of illness. These include:

• Maximising classroom ventilation by opening windows and doors where possible.
• Keeping classrooms at a comfortable temperature to support good airflow, so students may appreciate bringing a jumper or jacket.
• Encouraging regular handwashing throughout the day.
• Reinforcing good cough and sneeze etiquette and the safe disposal of tissues.

While these measures certainly help, Influenza A can spread before symptoms become obvious, making it difficult to prevent every case.

Families may also wish to consider whether their child would benefit from wearing a face mask during the current cough and cold season, particularly if they have a lowered immune system, a vulnerable family member at home, or an important event, performance, competition or holiday coming up. Students are welcome to bring a mask from home or collect one from the school office if they would like one.

The most effective way to reduce the spread of illness remains keeping children at home when they are unwell and ensuring they return once they have recovered.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support and partnership. By working together and encouraging simple healthy habits, we can help keep our school community as healthy as possible while supporting students to continue enjoying their learning.

Amanda Allan 

First Aid Officer / Library Tech