Flu season is among us, and based on recent public health updates, Flu A cases are increasing in our community. Because the flu spreads easily, we are sharing a few important health reminders to help keep our school community healthy. Flu Prevention It’s not too late to get a flu shot! Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity and spread of illness. Please keep your scholar home if they are feeling unwell, feverish, and showing cold or flu-like symptoms (fever (even mild), cough, congestion, body aches, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, etc.) Masking When Symptomatic To help keep everyone healthy, scholars who are symptomatic will be required to wear a mask properly while at school. If a scholar is unable to tolerate or wear a mask correctly, we will reach out to families to support next steps, which may include going home. This applies even if symptoms are believed to be related to allergies, as symptoms can appear similar to viral illness. Fever-Free Requirement Scholars must be fever free for a full 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications (such as Tylenol or Motrin) before returning to school. Hand Hygiene Please remind scholars to wash their hands thoroughly, especially before eating and after coughing or sneezing. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is strongly encouraged and preferred over hand sanitizer when possible. Best Wishes, Marina White, Regional School Nurse