Dear Parents,

As students return to school, we would like to offer some reminders and new information. If your child needs to take medication at school during the school year, we will need a new Doctors Order for the 2012-2013 school year. New immunizations need to be reported to the nurse so we can keep your child's health record up to date.

This is also a good time to make a routine check for head lice. Students have been to summer camps, sleepovers, etc. where they may have had an increased chance to contact lice. If you do find lice or nits (the eggs) contact either of us and we can give you further advice on how to treat the problem.

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly contagious illness caused by bacteria. It can affect people of all ages. It mostly affects the respiratory system. Symptoms of pertussis are similar to a cold (sneezing, runny nose, low grade fever, and cough). After one to two weeks, the cough gets worse. Pertussis can be spread by breathing in the bacteria. This germ comes out of the mouth and nose when someone who has pertussis coughs. The best way to prevent pertussis is to be vaccinated. Using good health habits also helps slow the spread-wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home when you are sick.
If you want more information regarding pertussis you may contact your healthcare provider. You can also visit the Maine Immunization Program at http://www.immunizeme.org

Thank you,

Holly Hodgkins, Houlton Jr./Sr. High School
Harmony Beaton, Houlton Elementary and Houlton Southside