Pertussis on the rise in Arkansas and across the country
After four years of lower-than-normal transmission, pertussis cases are on the rise in Arkansas and across the country. So far this year, there have been more than 130 cases reported in Arkansas, and we are on track to have the highest yearly total since at least 2017. More than 80% of cases are among school-aged children and adolescents (18 and younger) and there have been numerous clusters tied to schools and the surrounding community. Pertussis can be a serious disease, leading to complications such as rib fracture, pneumonia, encephalitis, and in rare cases death. Associated coughing fits may last for weeks, and it may take months for a person’s lungs to return to normal after infection. Early treatment is effective in lessening the severity of illness and preventing spread to others. Vaccination, post-exposure prophylaxis (i.e. taking prescribed medicine if you are a close contact to case of pertussis to help prevent infection and/or serious disease), and respiratory and hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of pertussis.
A student that test positive for pertussis must complete their antibiotics prior to returning to school. Pertussis is a reportable communicable disease and must be reported to the school nurse if the student test positive.
ALWAYS remember that if your child has the flu keep them home until they are fever free WITHOUT medications for 24 hours. This will help prevent the spread of the flu. Being fever free for 24 hours WITHOUT medication is not only SCHOOL POLICY, it is also a recommendation from the CDC and your PHYSICIAN. Refer to theGenoa Central Student Handbook_2024/2025 section 4.34- COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND PARASITES.
Students must be fever, vomit, and diarrhea free for 24 hours withoutmedications to be readmitted.
What are the top ten carriers of infection agents?
Your Fingers
Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine
It involves five simple and effective steps (Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, Dry) you can take to reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick.
Handwashing is a win for everyone, except the germs.
According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (Feb. 2019), Texas ranks #2 among states for the number of reported human trafficking cases. Human trafficking does happen in our communities . With Arkansas sharing a state line with Texas we are put at an elevated risk of either knowing of a situation or being in situations of Human Trafficking. Be aware, Be safe!
National Human Trafficking Hotline 1 (888) 373-7888
Press Conference on Recent Drug Overdoses in Texarkana Area
Fentanyl poisoning is already a crisis, and it’s only getting worse.
Hey Parents,
Drug and alcohol addiction is one of the greatest risks for our kids.
If you’re like most parents, you want to make a difference in their lives and protect
them against drug and alcohol abuse, but you’re not sure how to do it.
Teens who consistently learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t. (source)
Natural High website uses powerful social influencers to tell meaningful stories in a way that makes a difference in kids’ lives.
To check out their resources click on the following link —Please click here.
“7 Days: The Opioid Crisis in Arkansas” is a documentary that highlights the opioid crisis in Arkansas. It captures the stories of Arkansans who struggle with opioid addictions, as well as local experts who explain the impact the crisis is having on the Natural State.
“Chasing the Dragon: The Life of an Opiate Addict” documentary
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