Dear Stafford Schools families and staff,
As you may be aware, influenza season has arrived in the area. It is important to remain mindful of seasonal illnesses, including the flu, colds, and other viruses that can spread easily in schools and the community. Practicing healthy habits can help reduce the risk of illness for everyone.
To help prevent the spread of flu, colds, gastro-intestinal, and viruses, please remember to practice good hygiene habits:
Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
Do not touch eyes, nose, or mouth.
Cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Use a paper tissue, or cough/sneeze into sleeves.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
The CDC and VDH recommend vaccinating anyone six months of age and older against the flu.
Please follow Stafford County Public Schools Health Services guidelines for staying home from school when sick:Fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 37.7 degrees Celsius
Vomiting more than two times within 24 hoursDiarrhea
Nasal drainage that is yellow or green
Severe earaches (pain) or chronic productive (wet) cough
General malaise or feelings of fatigue, discomfort, weakness, or muscle aches
All students and staff should be free of fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea for 24 hours without the use of medication to control these symptoms prior to returning to school. Staying home when you are sick will minimize the spread of infections and viruses in the classroom. Please visit http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/epidemiology-fact-sheets/influenza/ and https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/influenza-flu-in-virginia/ for more information.
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