(CBS Detroit) – The Detroit Public Schools Community district closed one of its schools through Monday after the student died, according to a district statement.
Inspectors have yet to determine the cause of death for the Garvey Academy kindergarten, school officials said. However, officials say they are looking at “unusually high rates of flu symptoms” among students, especially those at the lower grade levels.
These symptoms include fever and vomiting.
“We are in active communication with the Detroit Department of Health about these cases and will be closing schools until Monday to allow families to monitor their children’s symptoms and thoroughly clean the school. We have mutually agreed that this is the best course of action at this time.” Read the statement.
The Detroit Department of Health issued the following statement:
“The Detroit Department of Health is working with the Detroit Public Schools and Community District (DPSCD) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to assess the apparent increase in illness among students at the Marcus Garvey Academy in Detroit.
“After receiving a report of a symptomatic student at Garvey, the Detroit Department of Health sent a team to the location to assess DPSCD leadership and help oversee a thorough cleaning and disinfection protocol review. Working with the Department of Health, the DPSCD has notified parents/guardians of students that Garvey will be closed until Monday for general cleaning.
“The Detroit Department of Health is working closely with the DPSCD and MDHHS to monitor and track all reported illnesses among students at the location. We have yet to confirm the cause of the illness. Once we have it, we will share that information with Detroit.
“Parents/guardians of children ages 4-7 should monitor their child for symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if their child experiences any of the following symptoms:
- heat
- headache
- lethargy
- nausea/vomiting
- stomach ache
“The Detroit Department of Health provides immunizations for children and adults to protect against many childhood diseases. Immunizations are also available at pediatric centers and primary care providers. For more information, call 313-876. Call -4667 or visit our website. www.detroitmi.gov/health.”
