UPDATE (Feb. 16, 2017, 1:50 p.m.): According to a letter released by Principal Matt Diggle of Endeavour Elementary School, yesterday and today, there was an increase in flu-like symptoms from students. This included excessive vomiting and multiple gastrointestinal symptoms.
Principal Diggle indicated that the symptoms have resolved themselves over the past 24 hours.
In conjunction with the Kern County Public Health Services Department, the school also released steps on how to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal symptoms:
- Help your student learn to wash their hands properly with soap and water. Wash hands often, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before preparing or eating food.
- Avoid touching your face and mouth. Avoid chewing on things touched by others such as pens and pencils.
- Do not prepare food for others if you have had vomiting or diarrhea. Discard foods that have been handled by someone who has recently had vomiting or diarrhea.
- Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. In particular, remember to clean items that will be near your face and mouth, such as telephones and cell phones.
- Immediately clean and disinfect the areas where someone vomits or has diarrhea.
- Immediately remove and wash any clothing or linens soiled by vomit or diarrhea. Use hot water and the hottest dry cycle available.
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The Kern County Health Department said an unknown illness has caused more than 30 absences at Endeavour Elementary.
The Fruitvale School District is unsure what the illness is but a letter will be sent out to parents today.
The health department is working with the district to combat the outbreak.
