Schools are making plans to protect students against a possible outbreak of the swine flu this fall.

The novel H1N1 flu virus is a respiratory disease of pigs now affecting humans. The virus was first reported in South Carolina in April.

The symptoms of the H1N1 virus in people is expected to be similar to the regular flu. These symptoms include coughing, fever greater than 100 degrees, sore throat, stuffy nose, chills, and body aches.

"The novel H1N1 is a new and unique virus circulating among the people," said Jim Beasley, a spokesperson for the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. "This is something we are watching very closely. We think there's a very good chance the virus could spread as children return to school for the new school year."

The federal Centers for Disease Control is awaiting results from clinical trials of a new vaccine before making a final decision on whether and how to offer swine flu shots.

If the vaccine is approved, Beasley said children would be among the first in line due to the rapid pace colds and illness are passed around in schools.

Both the regular flu and the swine flu viruses are expected to occur this year.

All 19 Cherokee County schools have a full-time nurse available to deal with the flu and other student health issues.

Cherokee County School Health Program Coordinator Donna Peeler said the district is working closely with the county health department to establish a plan for dealing with the swine flu virus in local schools.

"We are making plans here so we will be ready," Peeler said.

Letters are being sent home to parents to provide them with tips to help children reduce their risk of getting the flu. Prevention tips include regular hand-washing, staying home if you are sick, lots of rest, healthy eating habits, and covering your mouth, preferably with a handkerchief, when you cough.

Regular seasonal flu vaccines will be ready at the end of the month.

An H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available by mid-October, Beasley said.

The state Department of Health and Environment Control is working with school districts to provide information and establish procedures for making a swine flu shot available to students in school.

State Superintendent of Education Jim Rex said he plans at least one vaccination clinic for children in all 85 public school districts in South Carolina.

"There will be a massive attempt to use schools as vaccination centers," Rex said.