The swine flu has shut down schools in Mexico and New York City and because of the problem swine flu could cause for the Sioux Falls Public Schools they're taking a pro-active approach, leaving this message for parents.

"Good evening, this is Pam Homan, Superintendent of Sioux Falls Public Schools," said Superintendent Pam Homan, who left a message for every parent in the Sioux Falls Public School System.  "I'm calling with important information regarding Swine Flu.  There are no confirmed cases of Swine Flu in South Dakota at the present time, however, health officials have diagnosed cases in several other states.  Symptoms are similar to seasonable influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and body aches."

The message goes on to say that the District is keeping on eye on the latest information regarding the swine flu.

"The Sioux Falls Public Schools are working closely with state and local health agencies to monitor this issue.  If further actions become necessary, the District will notify parents and guardians.  Please take the precautionary steps to protect your family from respiratory illness such as the flu."

The Following is on The Sioux Falls Public School Website:  CLICK HERE FOR THEIR WEBSITE

Health officials have now diagnosed cases of swine flu in humans in several states.  The symptoms of swine flu are similar to symptoms of seasonal influenza which include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches.  There are no confirmed cases of swine flu in South Dakota at the present time.  However, the Sioux Falls Public Schools are working closely with the Sioux Falls Health Department and the South Dakota Department of Health to monitor this issue.  If further actions become necessary, the District will notify parents/guardians.

The Center for Disease Control recommends the following steps to protect your family and help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses such as the flu:

•    Keep children who are sick at home. Don’t send them to school.
•    Teach your children to wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.
•    Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Set a good example by doing this yourself.
•    Teach your children to stay at least three feet away from people who are sick.

If you have questions, please contact your school nurse or your health care provider. You may also call Avera Ask a Nurse at 322-6877, Falls Community Health Center at 367-8760 or Sanford Healthformation at 333-4444 for further information.