Illness/Respiratory Virus Prevention

Each year, respiratory viruses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. In addition to the virus that causes COVID-19, there are many other types of respiratory viruses, including flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The good news is there are actions you can take to help protect yourself and others from health risks cause by respiratory viruses (CDC website).
BCPS encourages parents, students, and staff to be aware of the symptoms of illness and to stay home, except for medical care, if they experience fever, along with any of the following symptoms:

• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Shortness of Breath
• Body Aches
• Headaches
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Sometimes Diarrhea and Vomiting

Once a person is fever free for at least 24 hours without using any fever-reducing medication and your symptoms are improving, you may return to school/work.

As we do our part to educate our community on universal prevention measures, we will continue to follow the direction of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A top priority of the Burke County School District is the safety and wellness of our students, staff, and community. Prevention is key to stopping the spread of germs that cause illness. Here's how you can help:

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Parents should monitor their children's health, and if they suspect a fever, conduct a screening at home with a simple home thermometer, contact doctor, if needed.
• Wash hands frequently using soap and water several times a day. Hand sanitizer is a second choice and to be used when soap and water are not available.
• Update vaccinations

You can go back to your normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, both are true:

• Your symptoms are getting better overall, and
• You have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication).

To learn more, visit Respiratory Virus Guidance Preventing the Spread of Respiratory Viruses When You Are Sick