As the recent enterovirus D68 overwhelms hospitals in the Midwest, many parents are wondering how they can protect their children. The enterovirus 68 is one of many non-polio viruses and can cause mild to severe respiratory illness. Confirmed cases of the virus have only been identified in the midwest not in N.J. The symptoms can cause mild to severe respiratory illness and may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, body and muscle aches as well as difficulty breathing and wheezing. Those with asthma may have a higher risk for severe illness. It is spread by respiratory secretions such as saliva, nasal mucus or sputum. Like most other respiratory illnesses, it spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches contaminated surfaces.
Back to school and close contact with other children causes increased risk and exposure to any type of respiratory illness. Basic precautions to protect against any respiratory illness (including the common cold) include:
- Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid handshakes, hugs, kisses or sharing cups with people who are sick
- Use good respiratory hygiene – cough/sneeze in elbow
- Stay home when ill. Those with asthma – avoid triggers and take prescribed medications to prevent an acute attack.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick
The custodial staff does a great job of cleaning our schools and make an effort to wipe each student desk and classroom doorknob on a daily basis to reduce the spread of illness. The school nurse in each building monitors student absenteeism and illness as well as districwide trends. We will certainly take all precautions to prevent the spread of any illness and reduce absenteeism . We want your child to be provided every opportunity to learn in a healthy environment.
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