The District received this information from the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction today. Throughout the Midwest over the past week, hundreds of respiratory illnesses in school age children have been reported. The closest cases have been reported in Iowa; to date, none in states bordering North Dakota. This form of respiratory illness is a enterovirus, for which there is currently no vaccine. While enteroviruses are typical for fall with symptoms similar to an intense cold, the impact of those requiring hospitalization is of national concern. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, sneezing, skin rash, mouth blisters, body and muscle aches. Children with asthma or allergies appear to experience the severest side effects of the virus. This particular type of enterovirus — EV-D68 — is uncommon, but not new. The DPI and Dept of Health are monitoring this situation and will continue to provide updates as/if the situation requires. Please promote the standard protocol of prevention - 1. Students and staff should stay home when sick 2. Cover your mouth/face when coughing and sneezing 3. Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands 4. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces – desks, door knobs, tables, etc. 5. Throw tissues in the trash 6. WASH hands often or use hand sanitizer
Posted on: Mon, 08 Sep 2014 18:12:26 +0000
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