Dear Parents/Guardians:

As the peak of cold and flu season is upon us, we have started seeing an increase in illnesses such as

colds, flu, strep throat, and stomach flu. To ensure a healthier school environment, our custodians will

devote extra time each evening sanitizing classrooms and wiping down desks and other hard surfaces.

To help prevent widespread illness, we ask that you keep your child at home if they are experiencing flu or

cold symptoms. Below are guidelines to help you decide whether your child should stay home:

Consider keeping your child home for an extra day of rest if they have:

● A very stuffy or runny nose and/or cough
● A mild sore throat (without fever or known exposure to strep)
● A headache
● A mild stomach ache

Keep your child at home for treatment and observation if they have:

● Fever (greater than 99.0°F by mouth) without medication
● Vomiting (one or more episodes)
● Diarrhea
● Chills or headache
● General fatigue, weakness, or muscle aches
● A congested or croupy cough
● Heavy nasal congestion requiring frequent nose blowing

Help Prevent the Spread of Illness by encouraging your child to follow these healthy

habits:

● Wash hands frequently with soap and water
● Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth
● Cover their mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing (using their elbow instead of hands)
● Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Additional Reminders:

● Colds are most contagious during the first 48 hours.
● Children with fevers must remain at home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the
use of medication.
● Children on antibiotics should complete 24 hours of treatment before returning to school.
● If your child wakes up with vague symptoms, such as mild complaints, observe them at home for an
hour or two before deciding whether to send them to school.

Your child should be fully ready to participate in all school activities upon returning. By keeping sick children

at home, we can minimize the spread of infections and create a healthier school environment for everyone.

Thank you for your cooperation in making the rest of the school year as healthy as possible!

Washington County School District

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