The flu season is once again in full force. We have had several absences from school due to the flu- but not enough to rise to the level that we have consider closing school. The highest percentage of student absences due to flu at one time this year has been six percent of the student population. Below are the guidelines of the Loup Basin Public Health Department that help schools respond to flu outbreaks:

Less than 10% of students effected:

• Begin heightened surveillance reporting
• Work with local media to announce that school will remain open but that parents need to prepare

10% or more of students effected ( but less than 30%)

• Begin intensive surveillance reporting
• Send parent letter indicating an expanded outbreak (including prevention tips etc)

Greater than 30% of students effected

• Consider closing schools
• Consider cancelling school events

Following the outbreak

• Re-open schools 
• Send parent letter summarizing events of the outbreak
• Return to heightened surveillance reporting

We hope that these steps will not be necessary- but it is best to be prepared. Parents can help minimize the spread of flu by following these steps:

• Keep children home when they are sick
• Wait until 24 hours after a fever has ended to allow your child to return to school
• Students will be sent home from school if they have a temperature of 100' F or above, they are vomiting,  have diarrhea, or if there is a concern of contagious disease.

Please call the school office, or your student's teacher(s) if you have any questions, or concerns as we work out way through flu season.