Kaw Valley USD 321 has had a large number of RSV and strep throat cases these past few weeks. We have included information regarding the symptoms of these illnesses in the newsletter but I wanted to add more info for parents.
RSV:
Students can return to school once they have been fever free for 24 hours (without fever-reducing medications) and begin having notable symptom improvement. A cough associated with RSV can last up to three weeks, but as long as you feel it is improving, along with decreased nasal drainage and improvement in lack of energy, we are happy to have them return. Every doctor varies a bit in what they recommend for returning to school because individuals can be contagious for 3-8 days. You can always call and we can talk through symptoms any time you want! Below is a link that you can visit for more information.
https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/high-risk/infants-young-children.html
Strep Throat:
We have been seeing several cases of strep throat associated with GI complaints. If your child has any of the symptoms listed in the newsletter, we would encourage you to watch them closely and consider getting them tested for strep. If diagnosed with strep throat, a student can return 24 hours after starting their antibiotic. Below is a link that you can visit for more information.
https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html
Fevers:
If your child has had a fever within the last 24 hours but has received Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin (ibuprofen), please do not send them to school. I know we are all frustrated by the amount of illness circulating, but this just prolongs the spread of illness when this occurs.
As always, please call or email me with any questions or concerns.
Melissa Mitchell, RN
Kaw Valley Health Services
USD 321 Lead Nurse