H1N1 Update, Jim Berkman’s Weekly Letter
Dear Academy Families,
The H1N1 virus continues to make its way not only through our country, but through our community. Last week, we saw an uncommonly high number of students out sick in one day, and while not all of the absentees had been diagnosed with H1N1, many students reported fevers and flulike symptoms. Thankfully, we returned to a more normal absence profile this week, although a handful of students were still out with high fevers. Some grades and classes seem to be hit a bit harder by the absences than others, also making any umbrella solution or response to the situation less obvious.
Rest assured that we continue to monitor the health of our community, internally and with outside assessment. Last week we consulted with University officials as well as with staff from the Boston Public Health Commission. The current advice is to remain open as long as our primary functions can be carried out; closing school to stop the contagion no longer seems to be a recommendation. Still, the cyclical nature of the prolonged absences and the wear-and-tear of playing catch-up with missed work have taken a toll on mental health of our students and faculty. Teachers have discussed finding ways to support individual students, with an eye to relieving stress while helping to make up work—a balancing act that is by definition imperfect, but should be of real value.
The practical precautions remain the same:
1. Wash hands frequently.
2. Cough or sneeze into one’s sleeve.
3. Stay home at any symptoms of the flu.
4. Don’t return until 24 hours after symptoms – especially a fever – have passed.
I appreciate the patience and support of families, teachers, and staff in observing these safety protocols, especially in staying home prudently (even if it means having to miss work). We will keep a close eye on this evolving situation, and update you as new plans emerge.
Warm regards,
James S. Berkman
Head of School
