CARSON CITY, Nevada – The Northern Nevada Public Health department has addressed the recent outbreaks affecting multiple schools in Washoe County. The number of schools impacted has fluctuated, with four schools currently on outbreak status as of Wednesday evening. This number decreased from six schools reported earlier on Wednesday afternoon and five on Tuesday.
According to the Northern Nevada Public Health, two schools are grappling with respiratory illness outbreaks, one with gastrointestinal issues, and one with both types of illnesses. Additionally, an additional 20 classrooms have been placed on outbreak status, with 15 classrooms affected by respiratory illnesses and five by gastrointestinal illnesses. Despite inquiries, the Washoe County School District has chosen not to disclose the names of the affected schools at this time, citing HIPAA policies.
Liliana Wilbert, an epidemiologist for NNPH, emphasized the need for confidentiality to protect the impacted schools and families. Affiliates of the affected schools have reached out to local news outlets to share details regarding the outbreaks. Reports from parents indicate a range of symptoms among students and staff, leading to increased absences and canceled events.
The NNPH is currently implementing cleanup measures to contain the spread of illnesses, including isolating sick individuals, sanitizing contaminated areas, and advising sick students and staff to stay at home. The agency is particularly concerned about respiratory illnesses like RSV and influenza, which are being widely reported in the region. So far, NNPH has reported 187 RSV cases, 36 flu-related hospitalizations, and 19 flu-related deaths, including individuals under the age of 24.
In an update released earlier on Wednesday afternoon, the Washoe County School District announced an increase in the number of schools and classrooms on outbreak status. Six schools and 20 classrooms are now affected, with a combination of respiratory and gastrointestinal outbreaks. The district reiterated that families who have not received notifications about their schools being impacted should not be concerned, as those schools are not currently on outbreak status.
The situation in Washoe County underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety measures within school communities to prevent the further spread of illnesses. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure timely interventions and support for those affected by the outbreaks.