A flu outbreak at a small elementary school in St. Charles forced the cancellation of classes on Thursday as over 90 students fell ill.
Around one-third of Seton Regional Catholic School’s total enrollment of 330 students consists of sick children.
The flu outbreak is occurring during a relatively mild flu season in the region. According to the latest data from the St. Charles County Health Department, there have been a total of 90 flu cases reported this season.
According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, flu activity in the state is currently at a minimal level. Flu-related complications account for only 1.3% of emergency department visits across the state, which is below the usual baseline for this time of year.
According to the latest data available from the state health department, Missouri had a total of 259 reported cases of the flu in the week ending Nov. 23. This number is significantly lower compared to the more than 1,000 cases that were reported during the same period last year.
According to health experts, there is still time to get a flu shot this year. However, they strongly recommend getting one as soon as possible in order to allow it enough time to take effect before holiday gatherings such as Christmas and New Year’s.
St. Charles County health officials have been in contact with the school and are currently gathering more information regarding the outbreak.