We know that students need to be in school to be learning, and that we need to keep our teachers and staff healthy in order to be able to deliver a high level of instruction. Whether you work in a school or Central Office or the Transportation Facility, the message is to be extra attentive to make sure we are all working together to stay healthy this winter.
ACPS advises parents to keep their child home from school if they have any of the following symptoms:
- fever of 100 degrees or higher in the last 24 hours
- undiagnosed rash that is accompanied by fever or itching
- bad cough or difficulty breathing
- vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours
- sore throat, with fever
- at least 24 hours after an antibiotic has been given
This same guidance applies to teachers and staff.
Many winter illnesses like the flu are spread through viruses released into the air by coughing and sneezing. Flu and colds are caused by different viruses. The flu will have an abrupt onset with chills and an accompanying fever with a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees. A cold will have a gradual onset with no fever or temperature less than 100.4 degrees.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the best way to avoid the spread of illness is to:
- Stay home when you have any of the symptoms listed above.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs that can cause respiratory illnesses like the flu.
- Get your flu shot.
Teaching our students to wash their hands correctly for 20 seconds in warm water can go a long way in preventing the spread of winter illness. See the CDC’s multiple short videos geared towards elementary school students to teach hand washing, or speak with your school nurse for ideas.