Getting ready for winter 2016

Public Health England have released their winter-readiness information for South East England schools and nurseries publication (PDF, 3.5 MB).

With winter approaching, it is important that schools, parents, carers and staff are mindful about the additional health risks that come with this season.

Pupils and staff in schools are always more susceptible to infection. This susceptibility increases in the winter months, with more potential for seasonal influenza and stomach infections such as norovirus. Close contact settings such as those provided in schools can facilitate infection spread; but this can be limited by improving infection control practices within the school.

Young children, and those with chronic diseases, are also at risk of developing complications from certain vaccine-preventable infections such as measles and flu. Immunisation is important to prevent complication and prevent outbreaks in school settings.

This year, there has been an increase in reported cases of measles that you may have heard about. Measles can be prevented through immunisation and there is useful information about measles in the resource pack contained in the attached briefing. The briefing provides:

1. Key messages for head teachers on winter preparedness
2. Two checklists on flu and norovirus readiness and when and how to report outbreak
3. Leaflets and further information on flu, norovirus and meningitis.

Contact Details

Public Health England
Telephone: 03442 253861 (select option 1 and then option 1 again)
Email: HPUKent@phe.gov.uk