Holyoke Public Schools’ Health Services Department, in collaboration with the City’s Board of Health, is sharing this important information with families and staff about respiratory illnesses currently circulating in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) reports that influenza (flu) activity is very high and continues to increase statewide, resulting in significant illness among children and adults and placing increased strain on hospitals and health care systems.
This flu season has been especially concerning due to the circulation of a new flu strain, which is contributing to a rapid rise in cases nationwide. Health experts expect flu activity to continue increasing following the holiday travel season. This new strain, known as subclade K, has already caused significant outbreaks in several countries. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reports that more than half of U.S. states are currently experiencing high or very high levels of flu activity, earlier than is typical for this time of year.
Tragically, DPH has reported several flu-related deaths this season, including pediatric cases. While COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity remains lower than flu at this time, both illnesses are beginning to rise. These respiratory illnesses can be serious, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions. Staying informed and taking preventive steps can help protect the health of our school community.
Why this matters in school settings
Schools bring together large groups of students and staff indoors for extended periods, increasing the risk of respiratory virus transmission. Taking simple preventive steps can significantly reduce illness, missed school days, and complications.
The city’s Board of Health and the district’s Health Services strongly encourage our community to take the following preventive actions:
Stay up to date on flu, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccinations: Annual vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness and hospitalization—and it’s not too late for adults or children ages 6 months and older to be vaccinated. Vaccines are widely available and free for children under 18 through Massachusetts’ universal childhood immunization program. They are also covered under most health insurance plans for adults. Contact your healthcare provider for more information. Vaccines are also available at many local pharmacies.
Students and staff should stay home when sick: Anyone experiencing fever, vomiting, severe cough, sore throat, body aches, or extreme fatigue should stay home until symptoms improve and they are fever-free without medication. More specific health-attendance guidance is available on the HPS website.
Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after coughing or sneezing.
Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow, and wash your hands afterward.
Consider masking when appropriate: Wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings can help reduce spread, especially for individuals at higher risk or when respiratory illness is widespread.
Flu symptoms may include
Sudden high fever
Chills
Muscle aches
Headache
Extreme fatigue
Cough, sore throat, or congestion
If flu-like symptoms develop, families and staff are encouraged to contact their health care provider promptly. Prescription antiviral medications are available and work best when started early.
Working together to keep our schools healthy
The Holyoke Board of Health and HPS Health Services continue to monitor guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and will share updates as needed. By staying informed and taking preventive steps, we can help protect our students, staff, and families and keep our schools safe and open for learning. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your child’s school nurse or the Holyoke Board of Health. Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools and community healthy.