Respiratory Virus Guidelines
On March 1, 2024, four years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC changed its COVID-19 guidelines to Respiratory Virus Guidance. This is due to natural immunity developing over time, the ability to test, the development of treatment options for those with the virus, and the availability of immunizations. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced on March 25, 2024, that its guidelines now reflect those of the CDC.
Fever & Symptoms
Many respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, the Flu, and RSV have similar symptoms. If your teen has symptoms of a respiratory virus, such as fever, sore throat, cough, runny or stuffy nose, your child should stay home. When in doubt, keep your teen home.
Many respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, the Flu, and RSV have similar symptoms. If your teen has symptoms of a respiratory virus, such as fever, sore throat, cough, runny or stuffy nose, your child should stay home. When in doubt, keep your teen home.
Your teen may return to school once:
They have not had a fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines and other symptoms are improving
We understand it is impossible to get through a school year without illness. For this reason, please call our Nurse's Office at 508–529–7758 x3006 or x3005 to discuss any symptoms your teen may be experiencing and whether they should come to school or not. When in doubt, keep your student home.
Illness at School
Students who become ill at school and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above will be in a separate part of the health suite, away from any staff or students who do not have ill-appearing symptoms. Please ensure your Emergency Contact Information is up to date in PowerSchool so that we can reach you promptly if your teen is dismissed due to illness.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Check out this Respiratory Virus Guidance FAQ.
MASKING GUIDELINES
Wearing a Mask on Campus
Although there is no longer any state-wide masking mandate in schools, masks still need to be worn in the Nurses' Office if you are unwell. We will provide you with one.
Free at Home Covid Tests
Beginning in December 2023, the federal government provided free COVID tests to schools for their students and staff. They are located in the nurses' office. Testing is NOT done on our campus.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Our School Nurses' Office is open when school is in session, Monday through – Friday from 7:20 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
HEALTH QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions regarding respiratory virus or COVID-19, please feel free to contact our school nurses at 508–529–7758 x3006 or x3005