The grade one/two classroom at Holy Cross Catholic Elementary School was the backdrop for a press conference put on by the Sudbury District Health Unit on October 22, 2012. On hand was public health inspector Miranda Berardelli and public health nurse Danielle Richard to talk about the prevention of spreading germs as we enter into flu and cold season. As part of their Infections Control Program, S.D.H.U. staff thought that a classroom would be a great fit for the media event, as the main message is that most infections that cause colds, flues, and a series of other illnesses, come down to hands, coughing and sneezing – with schools often prime locations for these illnesses. The students in the classroom were excited to share their knowledge of handwashing rules and had the opportunity to see the germs on their hands with ultraviolet light. As well, as part of the S.D.H.U. initiative, the students each received a musical handwashing timer to assist in the handwashing length of time. Students were encouraged to share what they learned with their friends, siblings, and other family members.
Louise Franklin, principal of the school was pleased to have Health Unit visiting the classroom. “What a great partnership we have with this community organization,” Franklin stated. “We are grateful to the Sudbury District Health Unit for taking the time to help educate our students about illness prevention, and encourage the entire school to follow these important hand-washing guidelines to ensure a healthy school community!”