We would like to update you on the level of the influenza like illnesses in our school and our plans for keeping children safe and learning in school. As a school district we are required to report to the Minnesota Department of Health, if 5 percent of our school student body is absent on a given day, with influenza like illnesses. This information helps the Minnesota Department of Health keep track of the level of influenza around the state. Today, our school reached that threshold with 5% of the student body absent with influenza like illnesses.
Having ill students is not unexpected, our school will continue to operate as usual, we know that the best defense against the spread of influenza includes:
-Having students and staff stay home when sick;
-frequent handwashing with soap and water, when possible;
-and covering nose and mouth with a tissue when
coughing or sneezing.
Syptoms of influenza-like illness include a fever of 100 degrees farehheit or greater, with cough and/or a sore throat. Symptoms can also include muscle aches, or fatigue and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. You should check your child each morning before sending them to school.
If your child has a health condition (such as asthma, diabetes, lung or heart problems) you should contact their health care provider for instructions. Especially if your child develops influenza symptoms.
We will continue to monitor influenza like illnesses in our school and will keep you informed as needed via letters, phone messages and the district website for updates. Providing a safe learning environment is our highest priority. On behalf of all of us at Maplewood, thank you for your help monitoring your childrens health.