Webster County Schools Monitoring Increase in Respiratory Illnesses
The Webster County Board of Education, in coordination with Webster County High School and the Webster County Health Department, is actively monitoring an increase in respiratory illnesses within the school community.
Superintendent Joseph Arbogast emphasized the importance of collaboration and vigilance:
“We are working closely with the Webster County Health Department to monitor the situation and ensure we are taking appropriate steps to protect the health and safety of our students and staff.”
Webster County High School Principal Gabriel Markle reinforced the county's commitment to student learning while addressing health concerns:
“We understand that the most important thing is to keep kids in school. At the same time, we are being proactive by having our custodial staff take extra steps to deep clean our facilities to help reduce the spread of illness.”
According to the Webster County Health Department, school officials have been notified of a recent rise in respiratory illnesses, primarily Influenza B, along with some confirmed cases of COVID-19. The situation is being closely monitored in partnership with local and regional health officials.
Health Department Guidance and Protocols
School leaders and staff have received the following guidance from Megan M. Smith, RN, of the Webster County Health Department:
The current increase in respiratory illness is being actively monitored in coordination with local health officials, including the School-based Health Clinic.
The priority remains the health and safety of all students and staff.
Return-to-School Criteria
To help prevent further spread of illness:
24-Hour Fever-Free Rule: Students and staff must remain home until they are fever-free (below 100.4°F) for at least 24 hours without medication.
Symptom Improvement: Individuals should only return to school when symptoms are improving.
Preventative Measures
Schools are reinforcing the following protocols:
Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; hand sanitizer available in high-traffic areas.
Respiratory Etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes using elbows or tissues.
Targeted Cleaning: Enhanced cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as desks, door handles, and shared equipment using approved disinfectants.
Monitoring Absenteeism: Schools will continue tracking and reporting significant increases in absences to ensure compliance with state health guidelines.
The Health Department has advised that this outbreak will remain under active monitoring until absenteeism rates return to normal baseline levels. At that time, the outbreak will be considered closed, and schools will be notified.
Additionally, health officials continue to stress that staying up to date on annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
Commitment to Safety and Education
The Webster County Board of Education remains committed to maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment while minimizing disruptions to in-person instruction. Families are encouraged to monitor their children for symptoms and follow guidance from healthcare providers and school officials.