Illness outbreak at Conant causes hundreds of student absences

Zehra Ozcan | Conant Crier

On Monday, nearly 500 students were absent from school, according to Dean Kathryn Sall, as illness continues to spread during the winter season.

School nurse Dawna Smeltzer reports a sharp increase in students visiting the nurse’s office since Thursday, January 30. Anywhere from 90 to 130 students have gone to the office each day, with an average of 45 being sent home daily.

The issue isn’t only at Conant–Illinois is currently on high respiratory alert for viruses, according to Smeltzer. “It’s common in the winter months for influenza, RSV, and the respiratory viruses to become active.” 

To prevent further spread of illness, the school is enforcing a fever policy. “Anyone who goes home with a fever over a hundred is supposed to remain home for 24 hours fever free without the use of tylenol or ibuprofen,” Smeltzer explained. “If kids are coming into my office with a fever, I’m blocking their attendance as ill for the next day.”

The biggest problem, according to Smeltzer, is that “kids are taking Tylenol, ibuprofen, coming to school to take that test or do that presentation, and all they’re doing is exposing everyone.” 

Smeltzer urges students to prioritize their health. “If a student is not feeling well, they’re not going to perform well,” she said. “If you’re not feeling well, stay home.” 

The district has seen spikes in influenza cases and student absences in the past, and this appears to be another peak. To stay healthy, Smeltzer advises, “Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and wash your hands with soap and water.”

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