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State Health Information

https://www.dshs.texas.gov/flu/

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Influenza is most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although activity can last as late as May.

https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/coronavirus/

FISD is monitoring developments around the outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. Based on current information, the CDC has stated “that the immediate health risk from 2019-nCoV to the general American public is considered low at this time.” Although the risk is considered low at this time, campus nurses will continue to work with campus administration to help remind students and staff of everyday actions they can take to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.

Steps to remain virus-free this season:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.    
  • If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough
    • Cough and sneeze into a tissue then throw it away, or cough and sneeze into your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose
  • Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and objects such as toys and doorknobs
  • Stay at home while you are sick.
  • Call and inform the Campus Nurse of anyconfirmed virus diagnosis.

FISD follows the Texas Department of Health Guidelines for illness-related exclusions from school. A student will be sent home if they have a fever of 100.0 Fahrenheit or higher, or any other contagious symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) and will need to remain home until symptom free for 24 hours, without the use of medications.  The school nurse will decide if a student should go home.

Health Services will continue to monitor and communicate with the Texas Health Department on any new information. As well as continue to update and work with FISD custodial services to maintain a clean learning environment for our students and staff.

https://www.dshs.texas.gov/idcu/disease/pertussis/

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory disease. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.

Pertussis is known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe. After fits of many coughs, someone with pertussis often needs to take deep breaths which result in a “whooping” sound. Pertussis can affect people of all ages, but can be very serious for babies less than a year old.