Increased Illness Notification
February 08, 2018
Dear West Central Parents and Guardians,
As you are probably aware, West Central C.U.S.D. #235 has seen an increase in a variety of illnesses over the last few days. The purpose of this letter is to let you know what steps we are taking to keep our school community healthy and how you can help.
Respiratory infections, such as the flu and common colds are spread when people come in close contact with individuals who are ill and inhale airborne droplets, or come in contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms may include fever, irritated throat, watery discharge from nose and eyes, sneezing, chills, and general body discomfort. If your child experiences any of these symptoms, please keep them home. If symptoms persist or worsen, please make an appointment with your healthcare provider to be evaluated. The flu can be serious for children and adults of all ages.
We take the health and safety of our students and staff very seriously and work hard to prevent the spread of viruses. Frequently touched surfaces such as door knobs, restroom faucets and fixtures, water fountains, desks, bus interiors, etc. are being cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis. We also encourage students and staff to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Take 3 recommendation to fight the flu:
- Get the flu vaccine every year.
- Take every day preventative actions to stop the spread of germs:
- Wash hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
- Cover coughs with a disposable tissue and dispose of it immediately or cough into sleeve.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with a sick individual.
- Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils.
- Stay home when ill.
- Take flu antiviral drugs as prescribed if your healthcare provider prescribes them.
You can help us maintain a healthy school environment in a variety of ways:
- Reinforce all of the above preventative behaviors practiced at school.
- Replace all toothbrushes.
- Disinfect frequently touched areas in your home and vehicle.
- Make sure children get plenty of exercise, sleep, and healthy food.
- Keep sick children home, especially if they have a fever above 100 degrees, diarrhea, vomiting, or severe coughing for at least 24 hours after a fever has broken or they have been on an antibiotic.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the building principal where your child attends or myself at (309) 627-2371.
Sincerely,
Paula Markey
Superintendent
West Central District 235