Prince George’s County, Md. – Princeton Elementary School will stay closed through Friday, Oct. 30, after a surge of respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses among students and staff. The decision was made jointly by the Prince George’s County Public Schools district and the county health department.
Why the school is shutting its doors
District officials said they received reports of flu‑like and gastroenteritis symptoms from 48 students and 16 staff members. With the infectious period still active, administrators determined that a temporary closure would help break the chain of transmission and give custodial crews time to deep‑clean and sanitize the building.
What parents should do
Health officials are urging parents and guardians to keep children at home if they show any signs of fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea. Simple preventative measures—regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill—are emphasized as the most effective way to protect the school community.
Impact on families and the community
While the closure may inconvenience families, school leaders stress that the short‑term disruption is intended to safeguard the health of all students and staff. The district will provide updates directly to families via email, the school’s website, and automated phone alerts. Parents can also check the district’s online portal for any changes to the reopening schedule.
Looking ahead
Once the closure period ends, Princeton Elementary will resume classes only after thorough cleaning and after health officials confirm that the outbreak is under control. The district plans to monitor absenteeism closely and will coordinate with the health department should additional steps be needed.
For more information on preventing the spread of illness, families can visit the Maryland Department of Health’s website, which offers guidance on flu vaccination, proper hand hygiene, and when to seek medical care for severe symptoms.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
