Tuesday, April 28, 2009
UPDATE ON SWINE INFLUENZA OUTBREAK
Edmonton Public Schools is taking its lead from Alberta Health and Wellness with regard to the Swine Influenza Outbreak, but decisions involving staff and students are being made based on the District's Emergency plan.
This morning, Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. André Corriveau, announced the province's first two confirmed cases of swine influenza. Both cases involved men who had recently returned from Mexico and their cases are considered mild. The Alberta cases bring the Canadian total to eight. Canada's chief public health officer, David Butler Jones, has warned that Canada will likely see more cases and even deaths.
Edmonton Public Schools' travel restrictions will remain in place for the foreseeable future, but might be tightened even further should circumstances warrant. It is recognized that there are cost implications to trip cancellations, but the District is committed to exercising due diligence in doing all it can to protect the safety of students and staff. One of the concerns is that staff or students might be stranded in a foreign country, should any bans on travel be instituted.
District staff members continue to be in ongoing contact with provincial health officials and are preparing additional communications materials as information is received.
Edmonton Public Schools is helping to shape the future in every one of our classrooms. We’re focused on ensuring each student learns to their full potential and develops the ability, passion and imagination to pursue their dreams and contribute to their community.
Edmonton Public Schools
Centre for Education
1 Kingsway NW
Edmonton, Alberta T5H 4G9