March 11, 2010

Nurses report increases in flu-like illnesses, recommend continued health precautions

The school nurses have noted an increase of illness in the school community. We have had several confirmed cases of Mononucleosis and Strep A. We have also seen an increase of Influenza-like illness, or ILI. We have not had any confirmed cases of Influenza; however,  in speaking with the Maine’s CDC it was noted that physicians are not testing for influenza across the state. They have recommended that we continue to follow the guidelines set by the CDC last August. These guidelines are as follows:

• Any student or staff member with a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) or above will be sent home. So please keep your student home if they are febrile.
• Students and staff with fevers are to stay home until they have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications (Tylenol, Motrin, etc.).
• Remember to practice good hand hygiene and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Contact your health care provider about any special care needs for members of your household who may be at high risk for complications from the flu.

Please feel free to contact the school nurses  with any questions or concerns you may have.

Paula Harris RN                       Cynthia Tardif RN                                Tatiana Green RN
Pond Cove School                     CE Middle School                              CE High School
799-7339                                   799-8176                                           799-3309 ext 420