The Village of Oak Park Department of Public Health, along with the Illinois Department of Public Health, are monitoring the local school community for suspected cases of acute gastroenteritis.
The message, put out by the village on their website, recommends that those who are experiencing symptoms of the acute gastroenteritis, more commonly known as the stomach flu, stay home from school or daycares to prevent the widespread.
“Typically, AGE is spread by person-to-person contact, consuming contaminated food or water, by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, or by tiny particles in vomit spread through the air that land on surfaces or enter a person’s mouth,” a statement posted Friday said.
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramping, with headaches, fever and body aches also being reported.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the stomach flu is common, but can have more complications for those 65 and older, as well as for children under the age of six.
Amanda Siegfried, senior director of communications and engagement at D97, said the health department shared the information about AGE with the district to bring awareness of potential illness within the Oak Park community.
“District 97 has nurses at each school, as well as a lead nurse, who would communicate directly with staff and families should any illness become widespread within their buildings,” Siegfried said.
Dan Yopchick, chief communications office for the village, said the village’s public health nurse, Kathleen Monty, had also been in contact with D97, D200 and local private schools to provide information as well.
The village’s statement asks that parents and guardians inform the proper facility if their child is experiencing symptoms and to keep them home until 24 hours have passed from the last time they vomited or experienced diarrhea.
They encourage parents or guardians to contact their child’s health provider if they have further concerns.