H1N1 and Summer Camps

Why is the CDC Concerned about H1N1?
• The main issue is that H1N1, although currently not more severe than the typical flu, is quite contagious and spreads rapidly among children/young adults.
• The primary goal is to protect adolescents with certain medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, etc.) since they are more susceptible to contracting H1N1. Once infected these children are less able to fight off the flu and additional infections. The CDC has recommended that schools and summer programs act immediately if a child is suspected/confirmed to aggressively slow/limit the spread of H1N1.

Please Read these Requirements before Sending Your Child to Camp:

• Do not send your child to camp if they have Influenza Like-Illness (ILI). ILI is defined as a fever of 100 degrees or greater WITH a cough or sore throat.
• Ensure that your child has not had ILI in the 7 days prior to their anticipated camp start date. If your child experiences ILI, camp participation should be deferred until 7 days after symptoms began and s/he no longer experiences acute symptoms for at least 24 hours, whichever is longer.

If Your Child Becomes Ill During Camp:

1. For respiratory symptoms such as a cough but no fever: the student will refrain from camp activities and will be safely housed in his/her own room and observed for 24 hours to check for other symptoms.
2. If the symptoms persist, or if the student exhibits ILI, then Carleton asks that a parent or other responsible party come pick up the student and recommends that you seek more thorough medical attention.
3. If the student becomes ill and has to fly home, the student will be kept on campus for seven days or for 24 hours after the symptoms have subsided. 

To learn more about H1N1 and the recommendations in dealing with H1N1, please visit the Minnesota Department of Health.