It is the policy of Uptown School (UPS) to promote a safe and healthy environment for its employees and students. To this end,

this policy has been created in an effort to minimize exposure and absenteeism in the event that a pandemic influenza is a threat to our employees, their families and our students.

UPS will remain open in all but the most extreme circumstances. Unless an emergency closing is announced, all employees and students are expected to report to work/school. However, all employees and students' parents are urged to use their own discretion in deciding whether they are fit and can come in to work/school.

Personal Hygiene and Good Health Practices to maximise Good Health

You should:

• Cover your cough by coughing into a tissue and disposing of it carefully
• Wash hands regularly and use hand sanitizers
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
• Keep as physically fit as possible
• and, if you become ill, follow your doctor's instructions

Pandemic Flu Team

The School Principal, UPS Nurse and Senior Leadership Team are responsible for monitoring emergency conditions for the purposes of communicating and implementing emergency plans to maintain the safety and security of UPS during emergency conditions.

Designation of Emergency Closing

Only in extreme circumstances will UPS cease operations (wholly or partially). In the unlikely event that an emergency evacuation is ordered, all employees and students will calmly and quickly follow their established evacuation procedures and routes.

Business and School Continuity

If students and staff have not been infected with influenza, then they are expected to report to school. If illness prevents someone from reporting to school, they (or their parents) are responsible for notifying the school. If possible, such notification should be made by a telephone conversation directly with the school. If direct contact is not possible, send an e-mail.  You should leave a phone number where you can be reached. If a student reports to school, and it appears that he/she has the flu symptoms including fever, sneezing, runny nose, coughing, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and feeling tired and weak, then he/she will be seen by the School Nurse or nearest clinic for evaluation by trained medical professionals.

If the pandemic influenza is severed enough, then UPS may decide to reduce face-to-face exposure by encouraging the practice of social distancing where possible, by telecommuting, teleconferencing and remaining at home.

UPS may limit or ban travel or school excursions to regions affected by flu outbreaks.

The Pandemic Flu Team will decide if school should close temporarily where there is an outbreak of the influenza in one or more students or teachers, and in relation to any edicts from the local authorities.

You will be notified of such decisions.

Emergency Medical Procedures

If an employee or student is in need of medical attention, we will notify the School Nurse and request assistance. If we believe the situation merits it, we will contact the ambulance serve immediately and inform them of the individual's symptoms, location and any other information they request. We will then endeavour to reach emergency contacts for the sick person.