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COVID, Flu, and Respiratory Illness

COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Beginning in the 2023-2024 school year, the State College Area School District will no longer enforce COVID-19 protocols in school (i.e. required masking, distancing, COVID+ in the home, etc.), it will be up to individual families to follow the protocols prescribed by their family physician.

SCASD will treat COVID-19 as an upper respiratory illness and follow our traditional protocols related to fevers for consideration of being sent home. As always, excuses for absences over the 10-day limit should come from a doctor.

Should you need further guidance related to COVID-19, please consult your family physician.

 

Flu (Influenza)

When we are in the midst of flu season, all parents, guardians, students, faculty and staff should be aware of flu symptoms in order to conduct self-screenings and to refer students to the nurse's office for evaluation. We also want to reinforce good practices regarding hand-washing and proper coughing techniques to help prevent the spread of germs in school and home settings.
 
Flu symptoms include the following:
  • Fever of 100°F or greater
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose.
  • Body aches
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting

If you think your child has the flu:

  • Keep them at home. Do not send them to school.
  • They should avoid close contact with others for 3-5 days.
  • Students may return when they have been fever free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication AND symptoms have improved.
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Reminders for all Respiratory Illnesses:Everyone should practice and encourage others to:

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Drop the used tissue in a wastebasket. If a tissue is not available, cough into the crook of your elbow or sleeve.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.