It's back to school season!  As you get back into your school routine, it is important to remember that there are things you can do to protect your child, your family, and your school community from respiratory viruses.

Updated Respiratory Illness Guidance (including COVID, Flu, RSV, Common Cold, etc.):

The ASD requires that students and staff stay home until both their symptoms are getting better overall, and they have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication) for at least 24 hours.

It is important to note that the guidance doesn't end with staying home and away from others when sick. The guidance encourages added precaution over the next five days after time at home, away from others, is over. Since some people remain contagious beyond the "stay-at-home" period, a period of added precaution using prevention strategies is recommended, such as:

• Enhancing hygiene practices (washing your hands and wiping down surfaces);
• Wearing a well-fitting mask;
• Keeping a distance from others

CDC's Respiratory Virus Guidance provides practical recommendations and information to help lower the risk of common respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

• Stay up to date with Vaccines and Immunizations
• Practice good hygiene (practices that improve cleanliness)
• Take steps for cleaner air
• When you may have a respiratory virus:
  • Use precautions to prevent spread
  • Seek health care promptly for testing and/or treatment if you have risk factors for severe illness
  • Treatment may help lower your risk of severe illness

We hope everyone has a healthy start to the school year!