Overview

For your convenience, LISD has compiled important information regarding communicable diseases and health issues. We will continue to post the most current information available.

Flu

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Influenza is most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but activity often begins to increase in October. Most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although activity can last as late as May.

Coronavirus

LISD Health Services is aware of and monitoring developments around the outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by the novel (new) coronavirus.

Here are some reminders to help “flatten the curve” of the pandemic’s effects on our community.

  • Practice social distancing and shelter in place as directed by health officials
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough
    • Cough and sneeze into a tissue then throw it away, or cough and sneeze into your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose
  • Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and objects such as toys and doorknobs
  • Stay at home while you are sick.

LISD follows the Texas Department of Health Guidelines for illness-related exclusions from school. A student will be sent home if they have a fever of 100.0 Fahrenheit or higher, or any other contagious symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) and will need to remain home until symptom free for 24 hours, without the use of medications.

Health Services will continue to monitor and communicate with the Texas Health Department on any new information. As well as continue to update and work with LISD custodial services to maintain a clean learning environment for our students and staff.

More information regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus

Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory disease. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.

Pertussis is known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe. After fits of many coughs, someone with pertussis often needs to take deep breaths which result in a “whooping” sound. Pertussis can affect people of all ages, but can be very serious for babies less than a year old.

More information about Pertussis | Pertussis información en español

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Varicella, also known as Chickenpox, is a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. Some people who are vaccinated against chickenpox may still get the disease. If this occurs, it is usually milder, with fewer blisters and little or no fever.

Mosquitoes Illnesses

West Nile Virus

To protect yourself and your children, practice the 4 “Ds:”

  • Try to stay indoors at ​Dawn and ​Dusk when mosquitoes are the most active.
  • Defend by using an EPA-approved insect repellent.
  • Dresin long sleeves and pants when outside (particularly during dusk and dawn).
  • Drain standing water in items surrounding your home such as flower pots, pet dishes, ruts and bird baths where mosquitoes can breed.

Parents are encouraged to pre-treat with mosquito repellent before a student comes to school. If you are concerned about the times between dawn and dusk, please consider dressing student in loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and long pants.

Zika

Zika virus is primarily spread to people through mosquito bites. The virus can be spread from mother to child. Spread of the virus through blood transfusion and sexual contact has also been reported.

Most people infected with the virus have mild or no symptoms. For those who do develop symptoms, illness is generally mild and typically lasts a few days to a week. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes).

More information about Zika Zika información en español

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