November 11, 2022

Dear Goodwin Families,

As you may have heard on the news, there is a rise in RSV across the country; including Connecticut. This week we have seen an uptick of cases at Goodwin School, mainly in our Pre- K and Kindergarten classes.

I have spoken to Scott Martinson the Director of CRAHD and he recommended we reach out to you. RSV is (respiratory syncytial virus), which mainly affects infants and younger children; however, it has been seen this year in older children as well. It is highly contagious and can spread very quickly in a school setting.

We are asking if your child is ill, has a fever, has a cough and/or runny nose, that you keep them home. If they develop fever, cough, and shortness of breath; please seek medical attention. Not all pediatric practices will test for RSV and may tell you that it is presumed to be RSV. When your child gets a diagnosis of RSV or your health care provider says it may be RSV; it is recommended that your child stay home for 3-8 days. Always keep your child home until fever free for 24 hours without use of fever reducing agents.

RSV can remain on hard surfaces such as desk tops, doors, etc. for numerous hours. We will have the custodians disinfect areas more frequently. We are also asking the teacher and families to encourage VERY FREQUENT handwashing to help prevent the spread.

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact your school nurse or myself.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Karen van der Horst, BSN, RN Nursing Director