It seems we have reached the peak of the cold and flu season!
School attendance is crucial for academic success, but so is the health of our students. Therefore, it is important to limit the spread of communicable disease and illness within our school community.
In general, we recommend that students not remain at school with a fever greater than 100.4 degrees F, or when exhibiting vomiting or diarrhea. Students exhibiting these symptoms may not return to school until fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours, free of vomiting for 24 hours and free of diarrhea for 24 hours.
In addition, students who become ill during school hours may not leave without visiting the health office, and must have a parent sign them out at the front office desk.
Consider keeping your child at home for an extra day of rest and observation if they have any of the following symptoms:
- Exceedingly stuffy or runny nose and/or cough.
- Mild sore throat.
- Headache.
- Mild stomach ache.
Keep your child at home for treatment and observation if they have any of these symptoms:
- Fever (greater than 100.4 degrees F temperature by mouth).
- Vomiting (even once).
- Diarrhea.
- Chills.
- General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness or muscle aches.
- Frequently congested (wet) cough.
- Lots of nasal congestion with frequent blowing of nose.
To help prevent the flu and other colds, encourage your children to practice these hygiene habits:
- Wash hands frequently.
- Do not touch eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, use a paper tissue, throw it away and then wash hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick (colds are the most contagious during the first 48 hours).
It is wise to observe your child at home for an hour or two before deciding whether or not to bring your child to school. Your child should be physically able to participate in all school activities upon their return to school.
Thank you in advance for helping make this year as healthy as possible.