Flu Notice

January 17, 2019

Dear Parents/Guardians,
We have seen an increase in influenza-like illness in several of our schools this week. While we have only a few sporadic cases of confirmed influenza, (flu), this reported illness has the appearance of flu-like symptoms.

Our school nurses have been vigilantly monitoring the number of students and staff absent each day, and are in communication with the Director of Nursing at the Montclair Health Department for guidance as needed. Please do not hesitate to call your child’s school nurse with any questions.

Our district-wide custodial staff is taking special precautions with increased daily cleaning throughout the district, as well as special detailed cleaning of classrooms and common areas where there is an increase in flu-like illness. We want to remind parents/guardians to keep their children home when they are ill. Students who are ill with flu-like illness or diarrhea/vomiting should stay home for 24 hours fever-free without fever-reducing medication, and/or 24 hours free of diarrhea/vomiting. Please call your child’s school to report his/her/their absence, and contact your child’s primary healthcare provider for recommendations.

Tips for Staying Healthy

  • Practice frequent handwashing.
  • Reinforce good handwashing habits with your family.
  • Use soap and warm water, singing Happy Birthday twice while using friction. Although hand sanitizers may be available, soap and water with friction for at least 20 seconds is most effective. 
  • Communicate with your child’s healthcare provider regarding the flu vaccine…it is not too late. 
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces in your home, including but not limited to: door knobs, handles, remote controls and phones.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the tissue and wash your hands. If tissues are not available, sneeze or cough into the crook of your arm. Please reinforce this behavior with your children. 
  • Encourage a “do not share” rule this season…. food, drink, lip balm, pencils, etc. 
  • Get adequate rest and sleep, hydrate, and eat well.

See further information on Influenza.

Best wishes for a healthy winter season!

Dr. Kendra V. Johnson
Superintendent

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