As the spring season rolled in, chances of viral infection among school communities began to skyrocket uncontrollably.

An email was sent from Nurse Stacy Quigg on February 14 informing students, families, faculty, and staff of the increase in flu cases and high risk of contracting it. The email’s content informed the recipients of ways to best maintain the health of the school community.

The flu is highly contagious and, although treatable, can result in students missing large amounts of school.

The school nurses have been in contact with the Harford County Health Department to ensure that health safety measures are being implemented proactively and widespread infections are prevented.

Students are encouraged to wash their hands frequently throughout the school day with warm water and soap and to avoid touching their faces specifically near the eyes, nose, and mouth. It is suggested that coughing and sneezing should be done in the elbow or a tissue, and there should be proper disposal of tissues followed by the use of hand sanitizer.

JC has provided additional hand sanitizer bottles and disinfectant wipes in each classroom. Frequent use is strongly recommended.

Most importantly, Patriots have been asked to avoid contact with people who appear to be sick. Cold and flu viruses are the most contagious within the first 48 hours of infection.

Symptoms of infection include fevers greater than 100 degrees, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, fatigue or muscle aches, and/or frequent congestion.

If students exhibit any of these symptoms, they should remain home and seek medical attention if symptoms are prolonged or worsen. Students with fevers should continue to stay home until they can reach a minimum of 24 hours non-medicated and free of fever symptoms.

The most common beginning signs of an oncoming cold or flu are mild symptoms when a student awakens in the morning.

Nurse Quigg suggested, “Students who wake up with symptoms should remain home for an hour or two in case of worsening symptoms. Upon further observation, the student can be sent to school if there is no progression from mild symptoms.”

The Nurse’s Office is prioritizing the health of the school community and will continue striving to keep everyone safe. With risk in mind, Nurse Quigg hopes to limit and influence the limit the spreading of viruses within the school.