Keeping Our School Communities Healthy: A PGCPS Health Reminder

Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS), in partnership with the Prince George's County Health Department (PGCHD), is working to help keep our school communities healthy and informed. PGCPS has noticed an increase in students and staff experiencing various illnesses across our schools. Together, we remind families and staff of the importance of recognizing symptoms early, practicing preventive measures, and taking appropriate steps to reduce the spread of illness. The health and safety of our students and staff remain a top priority. We appreciate your partnership in maintaining safe and healthy learning environments throughout the school year.

Signs and Symptoms to Monitor

Please monitor for the following signs and symptoms that may be associated with an illness:

• Fever

• Rash or unusual skin changes

• Persistent or frequent coughing

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Weakness or unusual fatigue

• Sore throat, particularly with difficulty swallowing

• Body aches

• Unusual or persistent headache

When Should I Stay Home?

If experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please stay home from school and seek medical guidance. Staying home helps protect other students and staff, reduces the spread of illness, and supports a healthier learning environment for everyone.

PGCPS offers Hazel Health, a no-cost telehealth service that families can access from home for medical guidance and student evaluations. Additionally, PGCPS has seven school-based wellness centers that provide free healthcare services to students, including evaluation and treatment. Please contact your school nurse or visit the PGCPS website for information regarding telehealth access and wellness center locations and services.

Importance of Notifying the School Nurse

Please notify your school nurse if you (a staff member) or your child is experiencing symptoms of illness, has been diagnosed with an illness, or has received medical guidance regarding a suspected infectious condition.

Timely communication with the school nurse is essential to assist the Office of School Health with monitoring illness trends, conducting appropriate public health surveillance, and implementing measures to help prevent further spread of disease within the school community. Student and staff health information will remain confidential and protected in accordance with applicable privacy laws and regulations.

When May My Child Return to School?

Students may return to school when:

• All symptoms have resolved for at least 24 hours.

• They have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

• If antibiotics have been prescribed for an illness requiring antibiotic treatment, at least 24 hours of antibiotic therapy has been completed before returning to school.

Additional exclusion or clearance requirements may apply to certain communicable diseases, depending on local health department guidance, public health guidance, and applicable PGCPS procedures.

We appreciate your partnership in helping maintain a safe and healthy school environment. By monitoring symptoms, staying home when ill, and communicating with the school nurse, we can work together to reduce the spread of illness and protect the well-being of our students, staff, and families.

If you have questions or concerns about your child's health while at school, please contact your school nurse.