Frequently Asked Questions About Swine Flu
H1N1 Flu Information

Fairfax County Swine Flu Alert

It is our goal to ensure the health and safety of everyone attending Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) classes and camps. We have been working with the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) to implement the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to limit the spread of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus at our sites.

Thus far, most confirmed cases of novel influenza A (H1N1) in the U.S have presented with mild symptoms. These symptoms are very similar to those of seasonal influenza (the type of influenza seen in our community each winter) and include fever plus a cough or sore throat. Some individuals have also reported runny nose, headache, chills and/or fatigue, and some younger children have developed vomiting and diarrhea.

At this time, novel influenza A (H1N1) virus is circulating widely in the United States, including our own community. The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) and the Virginia Department of Health project that novel influenza A (H1N1) virus is likely to continue causing individual illness and clusters of illness throughout the summer and into the fall. To protect your family and others against influenza, the Health Department recommends that you and your family members take these simple but important steps:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw soiled tissues in the trash after use.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Teach your children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to avoid close contact with individuals who have symptoms of flu.
Monitor your child for the symptoms of influenza (fever plus a cough or sore throat)
Do not send any child experiencing influenza symptoms to camp or class. Keep ill children home and away from others for seven days or until the child has been symptom-free and without fever for at least 24 hours, whichever is longer.

We encourage you to review your family preparedness and childcare contingency plans, in the event that your child cannot attend camp or class or you are requested to pick-up your child from a program early due to illness. Please make sure FCPA staff have your current contact information and know the best way to reach you if necessary.

For more information on the 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus, please visit the FCHD web page at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/flu/swineflu.htm. For specific questions, please contact your health care provider. Thank you for assisting us in taking steps to prevent the spread of illnesses.

Sincerely,

Fairfax County Park Authority
Park Services Division
Programs Branch