August 10, 2010

 

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- This time last year, the H1N1 virus was the worry of every parent sending their kids back to school.

On Tuesday, the World Health Organization said the H1N1 swine flu epidemic is over, but Fayetteville schools are still taking precautions for the upcoming year.

Fayetteville school officials said fighting the virus was more difficult last year because it came so suddenly, and people were still learning about the illness. This year, they said they're ready for whatever flu mother nature throws at them.

Student Kim Cosper will be starting at Fayetteville high school in the fall, but she's already familiar with one flu-preventing tool the school has in its arsenal.

"They always had a hand dispenser thing in every classroom,” Cosper said.

She said she's happy to hear those dispensers will stay in the classrooms indefinitely.

"Education is the No. 1 thing, if you're not healthy, you can't come here and learn,” Cosper said.

Alan Wilbourn, with Fayetteville Public Schools, said most school employees, from janitors to teachers, have been instructed in flu safety and prevention.

“Everyone had training last year in terms of how can we help prevent this, as well as any other airborne diseases or are transmitted via people,” Wilbourn said.

He said most students usually catch the flu before winter break, which is why Fayetteville schools are again partnering with the Washington County Health Department to hold student flu vaccination clinics earlier in the year.

"That seemed to be very successful in preventing the seasonal flu as well as the swine flu so that's something we will continue,” Wilbourn said.

Cosper's grandmother said she's happy to hear about all the flu preventing steps. She said they'll give her granddaughter a better chance at getting good grades in school.

Springdale schools also installed hand sanitizer dispensers in classrooms. Representatives from the district said they also plan to keep them in place.