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Facts about common illnesses
Influenza (Respiratory Flu)
Influenza is a respiratory virus affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, that typically spreads during the winter months. While we all know that in rare and extreme circumstances this virus may be life-threatening, the vast majority of influenza cases do not result in major health issues. Parents who believe their child may have contracted the flu should keep their child home from school and may want to consult their physician.
The Minnesota Department of Health requires our district to report cases of flu-like symptoms. Please click here to open a screening tool for what to tell your child's school.
We also strongly recommend that families obtain preventative flu vaccinations before the winter season as a precaution. Flu vaccinations are a good way to help prevent most types of influenza.
For more information about influenza, click on the following link:
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Parents are urged to keep their children home if they have any type of symptoms of bacterial or viral infection.For information about how to determine if your child may be too sick for school, please click here.Norovirus (Gastroenteritis)
Norovirus infection causes gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and the small and large intestines. This infection is often mistakenly referred to as the “stomach flu"- it is not related to the flu (influenza), which is a respiratory illness caused by influenza virus.
Common symptoms include:
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
abdominal cramps
Other symptoms may include:
headache
fever/chills
muscle aches
Symptoms usually begin 24 to 48 hours after ingestion of the virus, but can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure and usually last 1 or 2 days.
Frequent hand washing with soap and water can help to reduce the spread of the virus.
For more information please click here.
