Information and advice on Influenza A(H1N1) for Childcare Settings and Parents / Carers Influenza A(H1N1) has spread rapidly around the world and is thought to be highly infectious. It has already affected large numbers of people globally and will likely cause more severe illness and deaths than ordinary flu. Symptoms will probably be sudden and severe and may include: These can lead to complications some of which may be severe. As you will be aware, children under 5 (and particular under 2) are considered to be at high risk from the swine flu virus. REMEMBER 1) The role played by the adults working in childcare services is vital in preventing staff and children from becoming ill. Cough and sneeze etiquette Workplace hygiene Helping Children with hand washing Children who are capable of washing their own hands should be supervised where practicable using the routine set out above. Children who need assistance should be provided with a suitable safety step where necessary so that the child can put their hands fully under the running water. Staff members should then wash their own hands after this process is completed. (Temperature in accordance with the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations and in accordance with the Environmental Health Standards for Childcare services should not exceed 43 degrees C) Care of Toys and Equipment Following the normal routine clean all hard toys after use as the virus can survive for up to 24 hours on hard surfaces For the duration of the Swine Flu alert it is advisable to remove soft toys that are communal. Children who have favourite and/or comfort toys must be dealt with sensitively and have their needs met in conjunction with a hygiene plan agreed with parents/guardians Water play and sand play can be continued but the hand washing routine should take place before and after such play. To avoid mouthing of pencils, crayons, etc it is advisable to provide each child with a set of these materials marked with their name. Sharing of wind instruments should not be allowed during this period.Sterilising of all mouthed objects must take place regularly, especially soothers. Childcare Providers are advised to put in place specific contingency plans in the event of a swine flu pandemic. The Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) have produced the following document which gives guidance on some actions childcare providers can take: Get Listed on MyChildcare.ie today.... Sign Up Here
2) The first 3 rules of Infection prevention – hand washing, hand washing and hand washing
Hand Washing
The first and most important step in preventing the spread of Swine Flu is the regular and thorough washing of hands:
Some useful Downloads and Information: 
Frequently Asked Questions For Parents Further information can be accessed by logging onto www.hpsc.ie
'Guidance for Crèches / Pre-School Settings in preparing for Influenza A(H1N1)' Further information can be accessed by logging onto www.hpsc.ieThe HSE have produced 'Information and medical advice for the public on Influenza A(H1N1)' Further information can be accessed by logging onto www.hse.ieThe Department of Health and Children (DOHC) have produced a 'National Influenza Pandemic Plan' Further information can be accessed by logging onto www.dohc.ie.Healthforce Ireland have developed a flu-stop package for preschools.
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