Tis the season, as our community has seen an increase in illness due to a variety of respiratory viruses, some of our schools are experiencing high rates of illness as well. When a school has more than 10% of students absent due to illness, health office staff report that information to Linn County Public Health and the Iowa Department of Public Health.
In addition, our custodial department performs increased cleaning and disinfection in the affected schools. School nurses also provide students and staff education regarding prevention measures:
- Covering your cough/sneeze with a tissue or elbow
- Frequent handwashing
- Staying home when you are sick
- Getting vaccinated to help protect against influenza and COVID 19