Flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases are on the rise in Chilton County, Alabama, impacting schools and hospitals. Hayden Primary School and Hayden Elementary School will be closed on December 19-20 to minimize the spread.
Transportation is also affected due to several bus drivers being out sick. While some students may have to ride a different bus with combined routes, school leaders assure there will be no overcrowding.
According to Dr. Wes Stubblefield of the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), flu and RSV cases began rising in November and are typically seen during wintertime. He advises against visiting hospitals unless experiencing severe symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.
Dr. Stubblefield recommends seeking medical attention for mild symptoms, considering vaccinations, and practicing social distancing to help contain the spread. Both school systems apologize for the inconvenience caused by school closures.
Source: https://www.wbrc.com/2024/12/19/flu-rsv-cases-impacting-schools-hospitals