An Important Message from the School Nurse
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Winter has arrived and we have had our first snow fall of the season. With winter comes flu, cold and viral season. Many students have already been absent with the stomach flu, sore throats and bad coughs and the flu virus. However, on a daily basis I am sending children home who have come to school ill. I know how much students enjoy their time here at Elysian and miss being with classmates and teachers when they are absent. Unfortunately, though, when a child is sick with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, undiagnosed rashes or extreme cold symptoms they must stay home from school. Having sick children come to class increases the odds that their symptoms will be spread to other students and staff. Also, when a child is not feeling well they are not able to get the most out of lessons or the day’s activities. When students take cold remedies or fever reducers to mask symptoms before coming to school, this is not only a disservice to them but unfair to other children and adults. Children must be fever for twenty-four hours without the use of fever reducers before they may return to class. If the student has the stomach bug we are asking that they remain home for at least 48 hours. Even after the vomiting and diarrhea subside, the child may feel weak and tired and not up to coming to school.
I have been a working mother for the past thirty-two years and I understand the pitfalls of telling, a sometimes not so understanding boss that you must stay home to care for an ill child. However, for the wellbeing of your child, sometimes the best place to be is at home and in bed. Please also encourage your children to practice good hand washing techniques. This is still one of the best ways to prevent the spread of colds and viruses. I am also recommending that students bring their own water bottles to school to cut down on using the water fountain. The school has also purchased disposal cups for water. Our cleaning crew has been extra cautious disinfecting classrooms and bathrooms. If your child is sent to school sick in the morning, they will most likely be sent home. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, call me at school. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Diane DeSombre RN
School Nurse
