Important Safety Notice
Dear parents/caregivers,
We have a confirmed case of Meningitis in our school community. This case is likely to be the viral strain of the disease, however this is not yet confirmed. The child concerned is currently safe in hospital and is well cared for.
Our advice is as follows:
- We are erring on the side of caution and so advise you to keep your child at home if they are unwell during the coming week.
- If your child has not been immunised, then we advise you to keep your child(ren) at home pending further advice from the Ministry of Health tomorrow.
Please also remind your child about the following personal hygene practices:
- Not sharing a drink bottle or food
- Washing hands thoroughly
- Coughing or sneezing into your elbow
We have informed the Pre-School, BOOST, Burnham Kindergarten, as well as the Communications Manager of the camp so that our community can be aware and take necessary steps.
Please read below for signs and symptoms so that you are able to help us maintain student, staff and parent health and safety.
Please ask if you have further questions or concerns.
Yours truly,
Rob Clarke & Jackie Freeman
On behalf of the Burnham School Board of Trustees
Signs & Symptoms
Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can affect anyone. Babies, young children, teenagers and young adults are at greatest risk.
It can cause two very serious illnesses: septicaemia (blood poisoning) and meningitis (an infection of the brain membranes). There are different strains of the bacteria. The B strain is the most common in New Zealand.
Meningococcal disease can look like a case of influenza in its early stages, but it quickly gets much worse. The symptoms may not all show up at once.
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following signs and/or symptoms:
- fever and headache
- vomiting
- sleepiness, confusion, delirium or unconsciousness
- a stiff neck and sensitivity to bright lights
- joint pain and aching muscles
- a rash or spots (show your doctor).
Meningococcal disease can progress very quickly. Don’t wait – take action.
If someone in your household is sick with one or more of the symptoms identified above, you should contact a doctor or medical centre immediately, no matter what time of the day or night.
More information:
http://www.moh.govt.nz/meningococcal
http://www.kidshealth.org.nz/index.php/ps_pagename/contentpage/pi_id/95 | |
Tēnā koutou whanau and friends of Burnham School. I come from Ōtautahi/Christchurch and most recently have worked at Fendalton School. I've been an educator for 14 years and have a wide range of experience.
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