Reports of Multiple Student Illnesses at Valley View Elementary
November 21, 2016
Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County was in contact with Valley View Elementary on Friday, November 18 regarding a large number of student illnesses being reported. Many students reported symptoms including; vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.
Since Friday, Public Health has been contacting parents of students to begin an investigation into the cause of the illness. The investigation includes interviewing the students’ parents or guardian to gather background information to help determine the source of their sickness. In addition, Public Health collected a representative number of stool samples from the students. These samples will be sent to the Ohio Department of Health for analysis. Test results are expected early next week.
Public Health has also been in contact with school officials to provide guidance with proper sanitation procedures. To allow time for proper sanitizing, Valley View Elementary will be closed Monday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 22.
Anyone who is sick should isolate themselves from others until they feel better. Parents with sick children should sanitize their homes using a mixture of bleach and water.
To help fight dehydration those affected should drink plenty of liquids. Parents should contact their healthcare provider if they have any concerns.
How to Prevent Getting Sick
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water especially when eating, drinking and preparing or handling food.
- Wash your hands carefully and frequently when using the toilet.
- Avoid touching your mouth, eyes or face.
Sanitation Recommendation
- Chlorine bleach: 1/3 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water
- Mix bleach with warm water and apply to surfaces and allow to air dry. Do not use hot water as it will dissipate the chlorine. Individuals should use appropriate personal protective equipment when working with bleach, ie: goggles and gloves.
- Examples of surfaces to disinfect include; Doorknobs, faucets, sinks, toilets, bath rails, phones, counters, chairs, tables, hand rails, light switches and floors.
If Your Child or Another Family Member is Sick
- Consider seeking medical attention.
- Drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid loss from vomitting and diarrhea. This will help prevent dehydration. Sports drinks and other drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration. But these drinks may not replace important nutrients and minerals. Oral rehydration fluids that you can get over the counter are most helpful for mild dehydration.
- Severe dehydration may require hospitalization. If you think you or someone you are caring for is severely dehydrated, call your doctor.
Symptoms of Dehydration
- Decrease in urination
- Dry mouth and throat
- Feeling dizzy when standing up
- Children who are dehydrated may cry with few or no tears and be unusually sleepy or fussy.
