The local health department has advised that the influenza (flu) virus is circulating within the Midlothian community. In an effort to decrease the spread of flu in our school, Chesterfield County Public Schools (CCPS) is asking parents/guardians to review the school division’s Sick Day Guidelines, keep sick children at home until fever free for a minimum of 24 hours without fever-reducing medication, and to remind children to wash their hands frequently. “If you have a fever, stay home,” commented Midlo Principal Shawn Abel.

Students who are picked up from school with a fever of 100 degrees or greater will not be permitted to return to school the next day and must be fever free for a minimum of 24 hours before returning to school. If there are multiple cases of flu in individual classes, grade levels, or throughout a school, parents will be notified by the school. Mrs. Lynn Shelton, Attendance Clerk, elaborates on this new policy, saying, “Stay home if you are sick; we want you healthy. Your teachers will help you with any makeup work you might have.” Students returning from an absence should have their parent write a note and drop it off at the attendance office inside the blue box.

It is not too late in the season to receive an influenza vaccine. Please consult your health-care provider for a recommendation on vaccination. Hand washing, covering coughs/sneezes, a well-balanced diet, and plenty of rest may be helpful in preventing the flu or decreasing the severity of illness. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact our school nurse or the Office of Student Health Services at 804-639-1321