2/1/23

Dear Carnation Elementary Parents & Staff,

The purpose of this letter is to inform you of multiple students reporting gastrointestinal illness. Public Health – Seattle & King County has been in contact with Carnation Elementary and has begun a collaborative investigation & response plan.

The symptoms have been similar to those of norovirus, a common cause of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks. People who have norovirus infection are typically sick for 1-2 days (though some may not totally recover for several days). Because norovirus infection is easily transmitted from person to person, we recommend you follow these guidelines to prevent spread:

• Frequently wash your hands, especially after toileting and before eating or preparing food. Hands should be washed with warm water and soap for a minimum of 20 seconds.
• Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with feces or vomitus (use hot water and soap).
• Persons who are experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal illness can be contagious for a few days after they are feeling better. Therefore, students should not attend class and staff should not work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

If you have symptoms of a more serious illness, please contact your health care provider.  For more information about norovirus, including the fact sheet in different languages, go to our website at https://kingcounty.gov/depts/health/communicable-diseases/disease-control/norovirus.aspx

Sincerely,

Andrea Kosters, RN

kostersa@rsd407.org

425-844-4596