Illness closes schools in Fayette County

FAYETTE COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) – Fayette County public schools were closed on Friday.

According to the school district, all but three schools in the county had below average attendance.

The Health Department’s school nurse manager says it’s most common to see flu like illnesses at this time of year.

School nurses have reported to the manager that they’ve seen lots of cases of flu, strep, stomach virus, and respiratory illness.

The manager says Fayette County schools have also seen two cases of pertussis or whooping cough.

For that reason, the Fayette County school district closed school so custodians could disinfect.

“I think everyone is in support of it. I haven’t heard anything negative so I think it’s a good idea,” said Karlee Hilt, Parent.

Karlee Hilt’s son attends school in Fayette County and got sick on Monday.

Hilt says she’s noticed her son’s friends having the same symptoms and that’s why she’s grateful they are taking a day to clean every part of the school.

“I think it’s a great idea,” said Hilt.

If your kid is sick, the school nurse manager says you should keep them home especially if they have a fever.

Your child should be fever free without medication for 24 hours before they return to school.

“If you haven’t had your flu shot, make an appointment, get your flu shot with your primary care physician, and wash your hands. We can’t express that enough,” said Yolanda Loveless, Health Department School Nurse Manager.