2 Stanly County schools to close for 2 days due to ‘respiratory illnesses,’ officials say

STANLY COUNTY, N.C. — An elementary and a middle school in Stanly County are closed Wednesday and Thursday because of high incidences of respiratory illnesses, school officials posted Tuesday afternoon on Facebook.

Aquadale Elementary School and South Stanly Middle School officials said that teachers will make student work available for those days.

The schools will continue to be closed, as scheduled, on Friday and Monday as well.

There were 27% of students absent on Tuesday at Aquadale Elementary, officials said.

The typical absentee rate during winter is in the single digits.

The Fall Fest at Aquadale Elementary has been postponed and a future date has not been set.

The Trunk or Treat event at South Stanly Middle has been moved to Memorial Baptist Church.

Protocols are in place at the schools and officials are following guidelines from the state epidemiologist.

“The school and buses will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected during this time,” the posts stated. “We understand the impact this will have on students, staff, and families and appreciate your support and understanding as we put the health and safety of our students and staff as our top priority. We look forward to the students returning to school on Nov. 1.”

A surge in RSV, the flu and COVID-19 has filled more than 70% of the available pediatric hospital beds in the U.S.

“Our clinics have been very busy these days,” said Dr. Amra Zuzo, a Novant Health pediatrician.

Return to this story for updates.

Full Facebook Post:

“Aquadale Elementary is currently experiencing high incidences of respiratory illnesses. We have collaborated with local and state health officials and at this time we will be closing the school for the next 2 days to mitigate the spread of the illness. Protocols are being put into place in conjunction with guidance from the State Epidemiologist.

“Fall Fest is also postponed. A new date is forthcoming.

“Student work will be available by teachers on October 26th and 27th, and school will continue to be closed on October 28th and October 31st. The school and buses will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected during this time.

“We understand the impact this will have on students, staff, and families and appreciate your support and understanding as we put the health and safety of our students and staff as our top priority. We look forward to the students returning to school on Nov. 1st.”

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