The Marshalltown Schools have cancelled classes for the week due to the H-1-N-1 flu. Superintendent Marvin Wade says more probable cases of the flu prompted the decision to call off school. He says there are six probable cases among school-age people in the county.
County health officials spent most of Saturday discussing the situation of more probable cases in Marshall and Tama County. Wade says the temporary cessation of classes is what’s recommended in this situation.
It’s a precautionary measure to close all schools and all activities and people are encouraged to avoid going in areas where there are large groups of people. It’s hoped the shut down of Marshalltown schools for a week will help get past the flu.
Students are not to return to classes before Monday, May 11th. Staff should check late in the week to see when classes will resume. Marshalltown Medical and Surgical Center has moved to a higher level of access to its facilities. Only the main entrance and the Emergency Room entrance are to be used.
Only one immediate family member will be allowed per patient in the facility. Of the 39 tests for the flu sent out last week from Marshall County, six are labeled as probable.
Governor Culver signed a declaration of a public health emergency in the state, after the first case of H1N1 flu was confirmed by the C.D.C.