Message from the Nurses (Posted on April 1, 2022)
Dear Families,
You may be aware that we are seeing many different types of illness in our community and therefore in our health offices. Colds, coughs, flu, sore throats and stomach illnesses are on the rise and unfortunately these are highly contagious!
We know that you are working hard at keeping your families well. We ask for your continued support in the days ahead, especially when it comes to keeping your children home when they are sick. Even when test results are negative, it is important to give your children the time needed to recover at home, while their symptoms are resolving. This becomes especially important when you are testing your children for COVID – 19 at home. We have found that some children will test negative when symptoms first appear, and then will test positive 2 to 3 days later, with further testing.
Please know that your efforts are extremely important to us and are appreciated each and every day! Let’s continue to be strong together, as we hope for healthier days ahead!
With Gratitude,
Your Nurses
Notes from the Nurses (Posted on February 11, 2022)
Dear Families,
At times, it seems that we are inundated with information regarding COVID-19. The purpose of this letter is to provide you with some information on two topics that may be of interest to you – COVID -19 tests and an upcoming vaccination clinic at West Genesee.
- COVID – 19 Tests: Rapid Antigen vs. PCR
With the increased availability of at home Rapid Antigen tests, nurses are often asked if these test results are acceptable when a student is returning to school after illness. Home tests can provide valuable information.
If a home test is POSITIVE your child would immediately begin the period of isolation. No further testing is needed. If a home test is NEGATIVE, and your child is showing symptoms of illness, a follow up PCR test is needed for your child to return to school. This is because a PCR test has been shown to be more accurate when detecting the COVID – 19 virus at lower levels, that is – in its early stages.
- Vaccination Clinics:
West Genesee will once again be partnering with Wegmans Pharmacy in providing an opportunity for children aged 5 to 11 to receive the COVID – 19 vaccination. In addition, COVID – 19 booster vaccines for eligible children aged 12 and older will be offered as well.
The first clinic will offer pediatric COVID vaccine #1 and booster vaccines for older children. It will take place on Friday, February 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The second clinic, offering pediatric dose #2 and booster vaccines for older children, will take place on Friday, March 11, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Both clinics will be held at Stonehedge Elementary School. Click here to register for the clinics.
These have been challenging times. We are extremely grateful for your help in providing for the health and wellbeing of your child and that of all the children in our district! Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have in the days ahead.
Be Well,
Your Nurses