The Baltimore County Department of Health received confirmation from the State Laboratory that five students from Yeshiva Ner Yisroel have tested positive for H1N1 Influenza.

The five cases all had very mild symptoms that resolved within 24 to 48 hours. All of the students are doing well, and none have been hospitalized.

The Baltimore County Department of Health is working with the school administration, who have been extraordinarily cooperative, to ensure the health and well-being of this close community. The Department has recommended the following measures to reduce the spread of H1N1 Influenza
among staff, students, and visitors:

*Ill staff should stay home from work until symptoms resolve.
*Ill students should avoid contact with other people as much as possible.
*All staff, students, and visitors should frequently wash their hands and cover their coughs.
*Clean high-touch surfaces (knobs, handles, rails, etc.) in all common areas.
*Group activities should be discouraged or postponed. When this is not possible, proper handwashing and cough etiquette should be practiced.

Health Officer, Dr. Gregory Wm. Branch, encourages the general public to remain vigilant and to remember the flu FACTS in order to prevent the spread of contagious viruses, including H1N1 influenza:

*Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
*Always get an annual flu shot
*Cover your cough and sneeze
*Take time off if you have symptoms
*Seek care if your symptoms get worse

(Moshe Altusky – YWN)