Dear WUSD Parents, Guardians and Families,
As many of you may already be aware, the Sacramento region and now Yolo County are encountering a gastrointestinal illness (GI) outbreak, more commonly known as the stomach flu. The most common cause of widespread GI illness is Norovirus however, the organism causing the present outbreak is unknown at this time. The Yolo County Public Health Department is working diligently to identify the organism.
The virus has indeed reached our schools in West Sacramento but is not currently widespread as in other areas of our region. We have about 15 instances being reported of students and/or adults feeling the symptoms of the stomach virus. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps, and can last for 1-3 days.
What should parents do?
- If you or your child develops these symptoms, keep them at home until they are no longer vomiting, experiencing diarrhea and/or fever and nausea. They must be free of symptoms for 48 hours.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after contact with vomit or stool. Hand sanitizer can be used if no water is around. However, it is not a replacement for using soap and water.
- Clean all areas that have come in contact with diarrhea or vomit. Use a ten percent bleach solution (5 teaspoons to one cup of water) or a disinfectant that kills viruses.
- Notify the school and tell them your symptoms.
- Consult with your doctor and let them know that other students at your child’s school have these symptoms. The doctor may want to take a sample of your child’s stool.
- Contact the school if you have more questions.
- Fluid is lost in diarrhea and vomiting. Make sure your child is able to drink fluids. If your child becomes weak or is unable to drink fluids, seek medical care.
Additional resources and helpful information:
