Childcare providers need to be well prepared to combat the spread of flu, and know what to do if emergency action is required. It was obvious from the concerned postings on our website forum (www.nurseryworld.co.uk/Forums/) that Nursery World's community were very keen to get some advice and information.
So we've responded both in the print magazine and on the website. In our news story (page 3) you can read about the nursery that has temporarily closed its three settings, and how one of the UK's largest nursery chains has set up a Major Incident Team and carried out a full-scale rehearsal for handling a crisis.
The most effective prevention measure is very simple - wash your hands well! So on page 24, Iain Stewart of hygiene specialist Toyguard gives advice on how settings can ensure that staff and children know how to keep their hands clean without forgoing the joys of messy play or becoming obsessive about cleanliness.
On the Nursery World website, you can download a very useful swine flu guidance note provided by lawyers Veale Wasbrough, covering everything from symptoms to responsibilities and informing parents.
The other health and safety issue we've covered this week is that of electrical socket covers, and whether they should be used in nurseries (page 29). Desirable or dangerous? - see what you think!
