California Pushes Vaccine Notice out via Blackboard Connect

The H1N1 scare isn't over. That's the message being broadcast through Blackboard Connect by the California Department of Public Health, which is reminding school and college leaders to promote H1N1 vaccinations to their campus communities.

In a recorded message, Mark Horton, head of the public health agency, highlighted the need for continued vigilance. As of May 1, 2010, 579 deaths had been attributed to the flu in the state, and 8,959 cases had been reported.

"H1N1 still poses a threat in California, so we must continue to do our part in preventing the flu this spring. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent H1N1.... Also, please continue to cover your cough, wash your hands, stay home from work and keep your children home from school when sick." The message has gone out to a thousand superintendents, college administrators, and school health leaders in the state.

The company has partnered with the state agency to make a set of messages available for dissemination to K-12 and colleges and universities students, faculty, and parents.

Blackboard said its mass notification platform has been used by customers in the last six months to send a combined 21.7 million H1N1-related messages via phone, e-mail, and text message.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • metallic padlock with a glowing keyhole, set on a dark gradient background with a faint digital grid and blue-green highlights

    Microsoft Announces Security Updates

    Microsoft has introduced a handful of new security tools and updates, which the company said adhere to its Secure Future Initiative, a set of three core tenets emphasizing "secure by design, secure by default and secure operations."

  • abstract illustration of a modern school under construction

    N.C. District to Build New K–12 Innovation Center

    Edgecombe County Public Schools in Edgecombe, N.C., has received $62 million in government funding for the development of the new North Edgecombe School of Innovation, according to a news release.

  • A top-down view of a person walking through a maze with walls made of glowing blue Wi-Fi symbols on dark pathways

    Navigating New E-Rate Rules for WiFi Hotspots

    Beginning in funding year 2025, WiFi hotspots will be eligible for E-rate Category One discounts. Here's what you need to know about your school's eligibility, funding caps, tracking requirements, and more.

  • close-up of a video game controller

    Verizon Launches Free Scholastic High School Esports League

    Through its Verizon Innovative Learning HQ suite of free learning content and resources, Verizon has launched its first-ever scholastic high school esports league. The league opened for registration on Aug. 8 and will run from Sept. 23 to Dec. 13.