Dear Parents and Guardians,
We want to make you aware that we are currently seeing an increase in positive Flu A cases and other flu-like illnesses within our school community. While this is not unusual for this time of year, we want to ensure families have the information needed to help keep our students and staff healthy.
What Parents Should Know
Flu A and other contagious illnesses can spread easily, especially in group settings such as schools. Students should not be sent to school if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms or signs of illness, including:

• Fever of 100.0°F or greater
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches or chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Children must remain home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). Vomiting and diarrhea must also be completely resolved for 24 hours before returning to school.
If a student develops a fever of 100.0°F or greater or is actively vomiting while at school, parents or guardians will be contacted to pick the student up and take them home.
How You Can Help Support Prevention

• Encourage frequent handwashing
• Remind students to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow
• Ensure students get plenty of rest and stay well hydrated
• Notify the school if your child tests positive for Flu A

What the School Is Doing
We are continuing increased cleaning and sanitizing of classrooms and common areas, promoting proper hand hygiene, and monitoring student wellness throughout the school day.
Sending students to school while ill places classmates, staff, and the broader school community at risk and can prolong recovery for the student. We understand concerns about missed school days; however, health and safety must remain our priority. If a student will be out for an extended period, families are encouraged to contact teachers directly regarding assignments or make-up work.
We appreciate your cooperation and partnership in keeping our school community safe and healthy. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school nurse at 316-796-1331 or ashleigh.harp@usd267.com.
Thank you for your continued support.
Healthy regards,
Ashleigh Harp BSN RN