May 19, 2009 10:28 pm US/Eastern
Boston Latin School Closes Due To H1N1 Concerns
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
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The Boston Latin School will be closed temporarily due to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu.
Read: What is swine flu?
As of Tuesday afternoon, there were a significant number of influenza-like illnesses reported at the school. There is also a high absentee rate among students.
According to the school's
Web site, Boston Latin will be closed for seven days. The school is expected to reopen on May 27.
All onsite athletic events and extra curricular activities have also been cancelled. "We hope that this temporary closure will prevent new infections and avoid unnecessary illness," said Boston Superintendent Carol Johnson.
During an announcement on Tuesday, health officials said 260 students called out sick today and more than 200 were absent on Monday. At least five Boston Latin students have Type A influenza, which will more than likely turn into H1N1 cases. So far there are no confirmed H1N1 cases at the school.
The school has gotten approval from the state Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education to permit 10th grade students to take the previously scheduled MCAS exam on May 27, with a makeup day on May 28. Boston Latin has also made arrangements with the College Board for Advanced Placement make-up exams to take place between May 27 and 29.
Nearly 2,500 students attend Boston Latin in grades 7 through 12.
Because of the school's closure, prom, which was supposed to be held Friday, has been postponed.
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