The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) is closely monitoring an outbreak of the 2019 novel (new) coronavirus or 2019-nCoV. This new respiratory virus was first identified in the city of Wuhan in China’s Hubei Province and continues to infect people in China and around the world, including the United States. ISDH is working with federal and local partners to respond to this evolving public health situation.
WCS school nurses are in close communication with the ISDH and Student Health Services at the IDOE. They will continue to monitor and pass along any pertinent information. WCS school nurses saw an increase in flu cases this past week.
Parents are asked to follow the guidelines below. or call their school nurse with any questions concerning their child’s health.
Stay informed. CDC is updating its website daily with the latest information and advice for the public at http://bit.ly/guidelinescdc
Remember to take everyday preventive actions that are always recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including the flu.
Avoid close contact with sick people. While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible. Stay home or keep a student home if they are sick with a fever at or above 100.4. Cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.
Seek medical care if feeling sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, and if you have traveled to China or were in close contact with someone with 2019-nCoV in the 14 days before beginning to feel sick. Before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about recent travel and symptoms. WCS school nurses are available to answer parent questions about student health concerns.
