Henley Middle School - Rash of absent students

[Guest guest]

http://news.mywebpal.com/partners/670/public/news303550.html

Rash of absent students might indicate a virus is 'going around'

05/17/02

Officials at Henley Middle School notified the Klamath County Public Health

Department Monday about a rash of absenteeism at the school.

Public health officials have concluded that an infectious agent is " going

around. " They have consulted the public health laboratory in Portland to

determine if the illnesses are viral or bacterial infections.

The most commonly reported symptoms among the children include fatigue, sore

throat, fever, headache and cough, according to county public health

director Marilynn Sutherland.

" Our message to the community is: These illnesses are fairly common, and are

fairly infectious, " Sutherland said. " Children should regularly wash their

hands, drink plenty of fluids - but don't give aspirin to children, from

kindergarten through 12th grade - use acetaminophen, or tylenol.

" We will have more information by the end of the week. "

Concerned parents should call their family doctor, or they may call (541)

882-8846.