Detroit school closes after student dies; authorities investigate ‘unusually high rate’ of flu-like cases

(CBS DETROIT) – The Detroit Public Schools Community District closed one of its schools through Monday after a student died, according to a statement from the district.

School officials say the medical examiner has yet to determine the cause of death of the Garvey Academy kindergartener. However, officials say they are looking at an “unusually high rate of flu symptoms” among students, particularly junior high students.

These symptoms include fever and vomiting.

“We have actively communicated with the Detroit Health Department about these cases and have mutually agreed that the best course of action at this time is to close the school through Monday to allow families to monitor symptoms. of their children and to clean the school thoroughly,” he added. read the statement.

The Detroit Department of Health released the following statement:

“The Detroit Department of Health is working with the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to assess an apparent increase in illness among students at the Marcus Garvey Academy located in Detroit.

“After receiving reports of symptomatic students at Garvey, the Detroit Health Department responded by dispatching a team to assist DPSCD management in assessing, monitoring review of deep cleaning and disinfection protocols In conjunction with the Department of Health, DPSCD has advised parents/guardians of students that Garvey will be closed until Monday to allow for a deep clean.

“The Detroit Department of Health is working closely with DPSCD and MDHHS to monitor and trace all reported illnesses among students at this location. We do not yet have confirmation on the cause of the illness and will share these information with the Detroiters once this information has been confirmed.

“Parents/guardians of children 4-7 years old should monitor their children for symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if their child exhibits the following symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Lethargy
  • Nausea Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain

“The Detroit Health Department offers vaccines for children and adults to protect against many childhood diseases. Vaccines are also available at pediatric centers and primary care providers. For more information, please call 313-876 -4667 or visit our website: www.detroitmi.government/health.”

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