Science Corner
WHAT IS A(H1N1)?
A(H1N1) is a new strain of INFLUENZA A
virus that is categorized according to the
proteins found on its surface, H stands
for hemagglutinin and N stands for
neuraminidase. The numbers are based
on which form of protein the strain
contains (H 1, 2 and 3, and N 1 & 2 are
only found in humans).
This pathogen is contagious (acquired
through air droplets or through direct
contact of infectious agents to the body
openings such as mouth and eyes) but
not highly virulent (deadly). People who
easily acquire the disease are those who
are immuno-compromised (i.e. cancer
patients, HIV) or immuno-suppressed
(i.e. individuals who are under
medication) and those who are of very
old age and even very young individuals.
A(H1N1) is now considered to be a
pandemic, meaning that the flu virus
has spread rapidly across the globe since
humans have no previous immunity
against the virus. Individuals who
contract this infectious agent suffer from
the following: chills, fever, headache,
aching muscles, shortness of breath,
sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and
vomiting.
While this virus is similar to the human
H5N1 virus that causes seasonal
influenza, the A(H1N1) virus can easily
mutate into another form that can infect
individuals who have already recovered.
There is also a possibility that it can
mutate into a more virulent strain.
Hygiene Kit
Checklist!
Face mask
Alcohol and/or
liquid soap
Hand towel
Handkerchief
PSHS TASK FORCE H1N1
COMMUNITY BULLETIN
Classes in the PSHS were called off last July 8-10 at the recommendation of Doctor
Batoon, our school physician, due to the alarming number of students admitted to
the clinic with influenza-like illnesses (ILI), in addition to students who reported to
school after absences due to ILI.
94 students were absent due to ILI prior to the suspension, while 69 other
students were admitted to the clinic complaining of ILI. The day before the
suspension, there was an average of 4-6 students absent per section, and in one
class, the number of absentees went as high as 11.
As of Monday, July 13, the school has verified reports of two confirmed Influenza
A(H1N1) cases after seeing their laboratory results. In compliance with the DOH
guidelines on confirmed A(H1N1) cases, the school suspended classes for 10 more
days. We resume classes on July 27, Monday.
To protect your health and prevent the spread of the
virus, follow these simple steps:
1 Wash hands often 2 Cover your mouth when you, or someone else, coughs or sneezes
3 Stay home when sick 4 Don’t self-medicate, consult a doctor
From the Campus Director
FOR YOUR STRICT COMPLIANCE, THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES ARE
TO BE OBSERVED UPON RESUMPTION OF CLASSES.
1. Everyone shall submit themselves to thermal scanning upon entry into
the campus.
2. To decongest traffic on Monday morning, check in time for dormers is
from 2:00 to 8:00pm on Sunday, July 26. Only 2 companions will be
allowed.
3. Students who manifest influenza-like illnesses in school must
immediately consult with Dr. Batoon, the school physician. Your
parents shall be called to bring you home.
4. Students who miss classes due to ILI shall be given utmost
consideration by their teachers.
5. Students who come to class despite being sick shall lose their right to
make-up exams and requirements.
6. Bring your hygiene kit and wear your masks.
FIGHTING AGAINST A(H1N1) IS A COMMUNITY EFFORT! SIGN THE PLEDGE.
I have read and understood this bulletin, and I will be a responsible member of the
community as we deal with the aftermath of A(H1N1). I will bring my hygiene kit,
wear my mask, and mind my manners in everything I do.
NAME AND SIGNATURE, SECTION/DESIGNATION
(submit this to your adviser or your immediate supervisor)