Lincolnshire student contracts H1N1 virus

A student at Daniel Wright Junior High School in Lincolnshire has contracted the H1N1 flu virus, commonly known as swine flu.

The school will remain open, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend closure for a school with a confirmed case of the virus.

"I think we're taking precautions just as we would for any health issue," said Katrina Bruley, assistant superintendent for instruction in Lincolnshire-Prairie View School District 103.

The district's staff is disinfecting surfaces in common areas more frequently, such as cafeterias, restrooms, doorknobs and handrails.

Bruley said the district notified parents of the case shortly after learning of it on Thursday. She said the district is following CDC recommendations by urging students, faculty and staff to stay home for at least seven days if they become ill with flu-like symptoms.

"They are recommending that everyone just kind of take some precautions, you know, covering your mouth and nose when you cough," Bruley said.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, there are 43 confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus in Lake County. Another case turned up this week at Gages Lake's Woodland Elementary East, which will also remain open.