Delhi government issues advisory to schools on seasonal influenza, H1N1

The Delhi government has asked all the schools in the state to strengthen awareness and preventive measures against seasonal influenza, including H1N1, while stressing that there is no need for panic. The Directorate of Education has advised both government and private schools to adopt a “Healthy School-Healthy Community” approach and reinforce respiratory hygiene and other preventive practices among students and staff.

“Seasonal viral infections are common during this time of the year, and there is no need for panic,” Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood said in a post on X. He urged people to maintain personal, classroom, school, and family hygiene.

The minister further advised those experiencing minor cold, cough, or similar symptoms to consider wearing a mask, particularly around others, and follow basic precautions such as regular handwashing and covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.

“The health advisory has been issued purely as a precautionary measure,” Sood said, urging people to remain alert. He asked people to follow simple preventive measures and avoid unnecessary panic.

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School advisory highlights

According to the school advisory, symptoms such as sore throat, cough, difficulty in breathing, body ache, headache, fatigue, chills, and fever may be associated with seasonal influenza or H1N1. It said timely awareness and responsible preventive practices were important, particularly in school environments.

Schools have been advised to encourage students and staff to cover their nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues properly. They have also been asked to promote regular handwashing with soap and water, particularly before eating and after coughing or sneezing.

The advisory recommends maintaining appropriate distance from people showing respiratory symptoms, with masks to be used where considered necessary. Schools have also been asked to regularly clean classrooms, common areas, and frequently touched surfaces and ensure adequate ventilation wherever feasible.

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Schools have been advised to create awareness against spitting on school premises and in public places. They have also been asked to encourage healthy habits, including adequate hydration, nutritious food, sufficient rest, and personal hygiene.

Students and staff have been advised to avoid frequently touching their eyes, nose, and mouth to reduce the risk of infection. Schools have also been told to discourage self-medication, with antibiotics and other medicines not to be taken without medical advice.

The Directorate has asked schools to spread awareness beyond classrooms through morning assemblies, classroom interactions, notice boards, parent communication channels, and digital platforms.

District and zonal deputy directors of education have been directed to monitor compliance with the advisory and ensure that the prescribed measures are followed. They have also been asked to submit a compiled compliance report to the Directorate by August 31.

(With PTI inputs)