Flu impacting Jackson schools
JACKSON, Tenn — Trinity Christian Academy will be closed for a second straight day Tuesday. The closing was confirmed by an alert on their website, saying the closing comes after “a large number of students, teachers and substitutes who are sick with the flu, strep, and/or a stomach virus”. School officials told WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News, Monday the closing was very precautionary, saying they wanted to protect their families, faculty and staff. Doctors at Physicians Quality Care say they are seeing more flu cases. “Last week we have seen a little bump up. We’re seeing approximately 30 to 40 cases a day,” Dr. Peter Gardner told WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News., Monday. The Jackson-Madison County School System said it is a problem they are seeing as well, reporting 6 to 7 percent of students absent due to illness. One school employee said the main thing is if your kid is sick, do not send them to class. “Probably the most important things for parents to know, if your child is sick please keep them at home,” Carol Knolton said. Doctors agree. “The easiest thing to do is let fever be the guide,” Dr. Gardner said. “If you’re running a fever, consider yourself contagious.” Doctors still recommend getting your flu shot if you have not already, noting it can help protect from future illnesses. The Jackson-Madison County School System said it is allowing additional time for students and staff to make sure they are washing their hands more frequently, and is making hand sanitizer available in classrooms throughout the system.
