Kentucky schools struggling against widespread respiratory illnesses; how to prevent the spread

A “good storm” of respiratory diseases is at present wreaking havoc on Kentucky faculties and threatening to overwhelm the pediatric care system.

At the moment, at the least 25 college districts have confronted a short lived shutdown or nontraditional instruction day to this point in November. That’s a surprising quantity contemplating November simply began final week.

In the meantime, CHFS stories almost all staffed pediatric ICU beds within the state are full. With infections persevering with to extend, mother and father should do every thing they will to stop the unfold of sickness.

 
At the moment COVID instances stay regular throughout the Commonwealth, however that relative success has been offset by an increase in flu, strep, pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis just like the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Such outbreaks have been restricted in recent times due partly to COVID-19 prevention measures like masks and social distancing. Sadly easing these restrictions and letting our guard down within the absence of a COVID surge has paved the way in which for different pathogens to return with a vengeance, says Kentucky Voices for Well being.
 
Kentucky’s Division of Public Well being is trying to fight additional college closures by encouraging mother and father to comply with some easy preventative steps.

• First, in case you or your baby really feel sick… keep dwelling.

• Second, return to prioritizing handwashing and sanitation. This was drilled into youngsters again in 2020, however it might be time for a refresher. The identical goes for instructing kids to not use their palms after they sneeze or cough.

• Third, an important step you’ll be able to take to guard your loved ones from severe sickness is getting vaccinated. Everybody six months and older is eligible for the flu and COVID vaccines. Each vaccines may be given on the identical time.

The chilly climate season has barely begun, says KVH, so “all of us have to ensure we’re doing every thing we will to guard ourselves and our family members if we’re going to stop a winter of illness and college closings for Kentucky’s youngsters.”

Kentucky Voices for Well being