Fort Bend County health authority Dr. Jean Galloway reminds parents of schools closed due to H1N1 influenza cases to take precautions so that their children do not spread the flu. Galloway emphasizes that school closings mean that students go home and stay at home.

This is not an opportunity to start new gatherings, or hang out with friends, said Galloway. Also, parents should not take their children to other day cares, church or after school programs, enroll them in other schools or start traveling. It defeats the whole purpose.

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Although these measures seem harsh and do cause hardships, they have been shown to be one of the most reliable means of stopping a flu outbreak, Galloway added.

Please be reminded that the situation with the H1N1 (swine) flu is serious, said Galloway. Although the cases in the U.S.have not been as severe as in Mexico, we are taking these measures to try and avoid an escalation of illness here.

HHS also reminds parents of schools that are open not to send their children to school if they are sick. Any flu-like symptoms, with or without fever, together with a history of travel to Mexico in the last seven days, are also reasons not to send your child to school, said Galloway.