Despite a big spike in the number of flu cases across Erie County in the last couple of weeks, the Buffalo Public School District hasn't encountered any major problems. WBFO'S Focus on Education reporter Eileen Buckley spoke with the District's director of Health Related Services.
Just before the holiday break there was a higher rate of absenteeism in city schools attributed to a flu-like illness. But upon returning earlier this week the District reports no major problems.
"Before the school holiday, I would say we were having a lot of kids sent home with flu-like symptoms. Since we returned, I haven't had a lot of calls on it," said Assunta Ventresca, Director of the Buffalo Public School District's Health Related Services.
"But we do check in. Nurses check in all the time -- so we do track it," noted Ventresca.
Ventresca said students are always reminded to be careful in spreading germs and really work hard and following those guidelines.
"It's pretty standard now. I think washing your hands is just a normal routine. Use the sanitizers when you don't have access to a sink. Sneeze into your sleeve," said Ventresca.
Ventresca said the methods are helping to prevent the spread of illness in city schools.
Ventresca keeps in close touch with the Erie County Health Department discussing any concerns of illness. There has been an increase of Pertussis across the county, but Ventresca noted not within the Buffalo schools.
