Dear Team DPS,
As we head into the winter season, our schools and communities routinely see a rise in illness among our students, staff and families. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is currently monitoring a rapid rise in the number of outbreaks and hospitalizations related to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The number of RSV cases coupled -- with COVID-19 and flu infections -- is putting a strain on our pediatric healthcare system. Younger children and older adults are more likely to become seriously ill and hospitalized as a result of respiratory illnesses.
As a part of the DPS Community, we all play an important role in helping prevent the spread of illness. To help reduce the impact on our schools and the community, here are a few important things each of us can do to help minimize the spread:
- Stay home when you are sick. Access this document to determine How Sick is Too Sick(also available in Spanish.)
- Inform your school if your child tests positive for RSV or if you are calling to excuse them due to respiratory symptoms (cough, stuffy/runny nose, fever, etc.)
- Strongly consider wearing a mask around others if you have any respiratory symptoms, even mild cough, stuffy/runny nose, or fever.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow.
- Regularly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
- Increase cleaning and disinfection on high-touch surfaces.
In addition, DPS partners with a variety of community-based organizations to offer health services, vaccinations and other health resources to students. DPS students are able to access health services at no cost by visiting any of our 19 Denver Health Pediatrics School-Based Health Centers. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 303-602-8958.
