October 31, 2024
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are writing to let you know that there have been increased reports of bacterial pneumonia in Tazewell County schools. We are seeing this in numerous school districts across Tazewell County. Some of the individuals have tested positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae, also known as “walking pneumonia”, which is a common cause of bacterial respiratory infections. We understand this news might be concerning and want to share our efforts to keep students and staff safe, healthy, and in school. Your child may have had close contact with someone sick with pneumonia.
They do not have to stay home as long they do not have symptoms.
• If your child develops symptoms, have them stay home and away from others until:
o Their symptoms have improved
o They have been fever-free (without fever-reducing medication) for at least 24 hours
o They have taken antibiotics for at least 24 hours, if prescribed.
• Follow these instructions for other steps to reduce the risk of spreading illness to others.
• Seek emergency medical care right away if your child has any emergency warning signs (like
trouble breathing or chest pain).
• Notify the school.
Everyone can take prevention steps to reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading illness. This can include staying up to date on immunizations, washing hands often, and taking steps for cleaner air. TCHD and the school staff are working together to stop the spread of this illness.
If you have further questions, please contact the Tazewell County Health Department at 309-929-0281.
Sincerely,
Megan Hanley, MPH
Epidemiologist
Tazewell County Health Department