It came to our attention today, Friday, February 4 that St. Louise school was closed today and again Monday due to a significant occurrence of flu. At this point, estimates are that 25% of the community had been out of school at some point this week due to this illness.
We understand the following to be true:
1. In these cases, closing the school is as much or more about limiting the exposure of the school community to one another as it is to the facility;
2. The St. Louise maintenance staff is using this time to sanitize surfaces that students come into contact with, above and beyond normal daily cleaning;
3. This is flu season so that it has been making its rounds around many communities in Western Washington: the virus is not exclusive to St. Louise;
4. Simple precautions can assist in preventing the spread of the flu no matter where you are and what you are doing - as indicated on Washington State Department of Health website: http://www.doh.wa.gov/FluNews/flufacts.htm#basics:
Good Health Habits
Protect yourself and others--use good health habits
Take these simple precautions to help prevent the spread of flu and other lung and breathing (respiratory) diseases:
- Get a flu vaccine every year.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your upper sleeve, not your bare hand.
- Use a tissue to wipe your nose, then throw the tissue away.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel or disposable wipes.
- Stay home and away from others while you or your family members are sick.
- Wear a mask to cover your face in a medical office, if asked.
At this time, playoff brackets will remain unchanged as a result of this issue. Thank you.
Tauno Latvala
Director of CYO Athletics
