Polk County school system closed Friday after flu outbreak
A North Georgia school district shifted to a learn from home day Friday as a result of a large number of student and staff absences from the flu and norovirus.
Polk County school officials said they have 761 students and 63 school-level staff members with reported illnesses, which left a shortage of employees to operate effectively. Polk County has about 7,700 students, according to state data.
“This decision is not made lightly and as always we will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our students, staff, and community,” district officials said on their website.
Extracurricular activities and after-school events will not be affected.
Polk officials said all facilities will undergo a comprehensive deep cleaning to help reduce the spread of illness and ensure a sanitized environment for everyone upon reopening.
Flu cases, along with a virus called RSV, for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, have risen in Georgia in recent weeks. State health officials have encouraged Georgians to get a flu vaccine.
About the Author
Eric Stirgus joined The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2001. He is the newsroom's education editor. Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Eric is active in the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists and the Education Writers Association and enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists.
