Parents/Guardians,
Our school communities are feeling the impact of a nationwide rise in flu cases, with increasing numbers across the county and outbreaks in several of our schools. Tragically, we have lost two students.
The most effective way to prevent the spread of the flu is to keep sick children home. If your child is experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, or body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat and headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. Please do not send them to school. We also encourage families to consider flu vaccinations, which can significantly reduce the severity of illness.
Vaccination is also an important step in keeping our schools safe — not just for the flu, but for overall student health. The Prince George’s County Health Department offers flu vaccines at the Cheverly Health Department, Monday through Friday, from 9am to 3pm. Additional resources can be found at pgcps.org/flu.
PGCPS has taken immediate proactive measures to slow the spread of the flu, including:
Enhanced Cleaning – Increased disinfection of high-touch areas in schools and buses.
Handwashing & Hygiene – Ensuring ample soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer, along with reminders for proper handwashing.
Temporary Masking – If flu cases reach critical levels in a school, we may require temporary masking to safeguard students and staff.
On-Site Flu Vaccination – We are partnering with the Prince George’s County Health Department to provide flu vaccines in affected schools.
Limiting Exposure – Keeping students in consistent groups where possible to limit interactions and contain outbreaks.
Extracurricular Adjustments – Modifying or postponing high-contact activities and large gatherings as needed.
Ongoing Monitoring – We continue to track illness trends, work closely with local health officials, and update families regularly.
Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students, staff and our school safe.
Sincerely,
Dr. Herring and Ms. Holmes
