In Austin, Texas, parents of Kealing Middle School students were alerted after approximately 100 students were either sent home early or absent on Thursday due to a suspected stomach illness. This information was detailed in a letter from the school’s principal, Timothy Estes.

The situation arose following the students’ participation in an orchestra concert held on Wednesday evening, as indicated in the principal’s communication.

“While the exact cause of the illness remains unconfirmed, we felt it was important to inform our community promptly and urge everyone to exercise caution,” Principal Estes stated in the letter.

He further explained that the AISD Health Department is actively collaborating with local authorities to adhere to all necessary procedures regarding potential tracking and sanitation efforts.

Additionally, the principal assured families that the school would undergo a “deep cleaning,” focusing particularly on the areas where the students performed and rehearsed.

Families are urged to monitor their students, especially if they are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Here are steps to follow if students start experiencing symptoms, as provided by the middle school:

• Keep students home and do not send them to school. They also cannot participate in any “school-related activities.” Students should stay home until they have not experienced symptoms for at least 24 hours and are not using “symptom-suppressing medication.”
• Contact a doctor for further guidance.
• Notify the middle school. If the child receives a diagnosis “with a contagious illness,” then the school nurse or main office need to be notified.

“We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we prioritize the health and safety of our entire school community. We will be sure to follow-up if we gain further insight into the source of the illness,” the letter said.