Precautions for Dealing with H1N1 Flu at Scouting Functions

The H1N1 Virus, also known as SWINE FLU, has been classified as a world-wide pandemic.  While there have been no reports of influenza in our Pack, it continues to be an ongoing problem throughout the country. In order to protect Cub Scouts, parents, family and leaders from the current outbreak of the flu we are asking all leaders and parents to be aware of the precautions we are taking and that we are asking you to take.  The following are some excerpts from the Boy Scout Health and Safety committee concerning precautions at Scout events and resident camps during the current H1N1 outbreak.

Don’t Panic. The preventative measures we take every day to keep our Scouts healthy are the key to managing flu.

The following are recommended actions to keep Cub Scouts, parents, family and leaders healthy and safe this season:

o      If you are sick, STAY HOME!

o      Practice and remind others to practice good hand washing procedures. We will also have hand sanitizer at every meeting.  Remember to sanitize your hands when entering into and when leaving at the conclusion of every meeting.

o      Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and avoid close contact with others when they are coughing or sneezing. It is recommended that you cough into the crook of your arm rather than your hand to avoid infecting your hands. This lowers the chance of contaminating others.

o      Know and share with others the information to recognize influenza-like symptoms.  A key signal is feeling feverish or having a temperature at and greater than 100 degrees especially if combined with one or more of the following.

• Upper respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose)
• Body aches, headache
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

o      If you are attending a District or Council sponsored Camporee, medical screening questions will be asked of all participants and leaders upon check-in to identify symptoms, including a temperature check of incoming participants.  If they have any symptoms; they will be sent home.

o      Conduct symptom checks every morning.

o      Quarantine suspected ill individuals, and contact your family physician.

o      Before you are exposed to the flu, considering consulting with your healthcare provider about the flu vaccine and if it is right for you and your family.

We will continue to monitor the CDC and Scouting Safely Web sites.  You can find additional information about the flu at www.flu.gov  and www.cdc.gov/flu .  We appreciate your help with this and your cooperation!