CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – Westchester Elementary School in Coral Springs has undergone a thorough cleaning after parents said dozens of children were sent home Wednesday after contracting the norovirus.
"Westchester Elementary School continues to work with the district's Coordinated Student Health Services Department and the Florida Department of Health in Broward to take all necessary precautions regarding recent gastric concerns at the school," Broward County Public Schools said in a statement. "The focus is always on providing a safe and healthy learning environment for students."
The school district said it was made aware of the situation on Wednesday, and notified parents through its ParentLink. Letters were also sent home with students.
"When I opened the letter and read it saying that a virus was going around and a lot of kids were throwing up and everything, I was kind of hesitant to take him to school or not," one parent, Daphne Velez, said. "But at the same time, if you don't take them to school they fall behind."
Below is a list of steps taken by the school that was provided by BCPS:
· The entire school underwent a thorough cleaning and sanitizing Wednesday evening. All common areas, including the playgrounds, continue to be sanitized daily, with regular cleanings ongoing.
· School buses that service the school have been sanitized.
· Water fountains are covered and bottle water is provided
· Parents have been provided instructions for recognizing gastroenteritis symptoms and advised to seek medical attention should symptoms persist, per the Health Department.
· The school continues to reinforce with parents, students and staff the importance of washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the restroom and prior to eating.
· The principal continues to communicate with parents/guardians and staff
· The school's after-care program is adhering to the same requirements and precautionary measures as the school, as stipulated by the Florida Department of Health in Broward.
School officials advise that students and faculty who are experiencing symptoms of a gastric illness should stay home from school until they are symptom free for three days.
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