We are well into the cold and flu season, and this year, many areas nationwide have seen a spike in cases of influenza. At Ste. Genevieve R-II, there have been a high number of student absences over the past several weeks due to flu-like symptoms. Influenza (also known as the flu) is a common viral respiratory infection. We would like to share information with families about how to best prevent the spread of influenza throughout our community and our schools.
The health and well-being of our students, faculty and staff is of utmost importance. Our buildings are undergoing a thorough disinfection to prevent the spread of germs. More antibacterial hand sanitizers have been made available throughout our schools, and students, faculty and staff are being reminded to wash their hands thoroughly and often.
When to Keep Your Child Home From School:
Influenza symptoms can include a fever of 100+ degrees, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) recommends that children showing these flu-like symptoms should stay home from school for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone. Please report these symptoms when calling in to the school to report an absence. The illness may last up to 7 days, and if your child has been infected, it may take 1 to 4 days for symptoms to start. If anyone in your home has a high fever or cough, reach out to your healthcare provider.
We are doing everything we can to keep our students healthy, but we need your help. The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot each year as soon as the vaccine is available to the public. Other precautions include hand-washing and using antibacterial hand sanitizers, covering coughs, avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth and avoiding close contact with those who are sick.
Thank you for helping minimize the spread of infections and viruses throughout our schools. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Gina Lightle, RN
Nursing Coordinator
Ste. Genevieve RII School District
573-883-4500 x2940