Following on from the news of a measles outbreak, the Auckland Regional Public Health Service have provided some information for parents and guardians.

Please see attached information sheet.

Dear Parents and Caregivers

INFLUENZA A (H1N1) SWINE FLU

With the Swine Flu having spread to some of our neighbouring countries and the bulk of reported cases involving young people it is important that as a school and community we react appropriately to any risk associated with the potential spread of this flu.

Schools have been contacted by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health to ensure that we have reviewed our pandemic planning and to prepare for the possibility of school closures and the need for students to access the curriculum through the internet or other distant learning options.

Should the school need to close or is asked to close by the Ministry of Health updated information on a daily basis will be provided through letter or the school website; www.rutherford.school.nz. 

For the school to be able to effectively deal with potential school closure, we request that you ensure that your contact details particularly those around e-mail and cellphone contacts are up to date.  Contact details can be updated by emailing [admin@rutherford.school.nz] or phoning the office 834 9790.

The Ministry of Health advises that parents keep students home from school if they develop flu like symptoms and to contact a doctor whether they have been overseas or not.  Under the current situation it is important that standards of personal hygiene need to be given additional consideration. Use of tissues and regular washing and effective drying of hands are simple things that can and will make a difference to the potential spread of H1N1.

If you would like any further advice on Swine Flu, please phone the Health line on 0800 611 116 or access the Ministry of Health website; www.moh.govt.nz

Yours sincerely

GARY MOORE
PRINCIPAL

Student Health Services 2007

Student Health Services is situated at the rear entrance to the school at Toro Street.

We are in the first building on the right hand side and are signposted as Student Health Services. This is where the Health Clinic is located and where second hand uniform and stationery are sold as well as lost property stored.

The Health Clinic is in the Student Health Services building. We have a registered nurse on site during school hours who is accessible for students to visit in their own time or with permission from the class teacher or Dean. If a student's medication is changed during the year or any medical conditions occur, please let our nurse know so that she can be informed and can give ongoing assistance. A student Health Record card must be signed before any students can be given Panadol or any other medication.

Of particular concern is the huge amount of lost property that is accumulated each term. Students are encouraged to visit regularly and are reminded with notices in the daily bulletin. Often students report things as stolen but they turn up in lost property so it is good to check.

At the beginning of each term clothing from the previous term that has not been claimed is donated to charity. We suggest that all clothing be named so that items can be returned to the rightful owner.

As parents and caregivers please feel free to visit us between the hours of 8.30 am and 2.30pm if you wish to check the lost property or purchase any of the uniform or stationery.

If you have any concerns concerning the health of your student please don’t hesitate to contact Student Health Services on 834 9790 ex 226.