Staying Healthy This Fall and Winter

Dear GISNY Community,  

As we head into the fall and winter months, we want to emphasize the importance of staying home when feeling ill. Many communicable illnesses spread easily, and we ask for your cooperation in keeping our school community healthy. As in past years, colder weather often increases illnesses such as colds, flu, and COVID-19.

Respiratory Illnesses (COVID-19, Flu, RSV, etc.)

Keep your child home if sick: If your child is experiencing flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, body aches, or fatigue, please keep them home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and symptoms have improved. Current CDC guidance recommends staying home and away from others when sick with a respiratory virus. Consult your medical provider for treatment options, as treatment for COVID-19 and influenza can lessen symptoms and reduce the risk of severe illness.

Masking

While masks are not currently required, we encourage their use, especially during periods of high transmission of respiratory illnesses or for individuals at higher risk of severe illness. Masks remain an important tool in protecting those with underlying health conditions.

Communication

Please inform us at nurse@gisny.org if your child tests positive for any communicable disease.

Vaccinations

We encourage everyone to stay updated with COVID-19 vaccinations and flu shots to protect yourself and others.

Health Resources

For more information on COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory illnesses, as well as testing locations and vaccination resources, visit the New York State Department of Health website.

We appreciate your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep our school community safe. Together, we can reduce the spread of illness and ensure a healthy school year for all.