BROWN COUNTY — Health officials and administrators with USD 415 in Hiawatha
continue to see an elevated number of individuals presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms, according to a joint media release from the school and hospital.
While it is currently unknown what is causing illness, the Hiawatha Community Hospital and USD 415 are working closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Brown County Health Department to investigate this cluster of illnesses.
Due to the sickness, the school district cancelled the Bonfire games/pep rally scheduled for Thursday.
Health officials asked that if you have a fever, please stay home until you have been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. If you have a fever of 100.4 or greater for 3 days with a cough, please see your medical provider.
An underlying respiratory condition, such as asthma, may make illness worse so consider seeing your medical provider soon after illness starts. KDHE does not recommend to exclude a person with a cough from school or school event. A cough could have many causes including asthma, allergies, or other respiratory illnesses and does not warrant isolation. If you only have a cough, it does not mean you are sick with this illness; however, if you are having severe coughing fits, it is recommended you stay home.
As a reminder, always practice healthy habits to prevent the spread of germs, especially when you are ill. Remember to:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using the tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
If a tissue is not available, please cough or sneeze into your sleeve at the elbow. Do not cough into your hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.