Flu Outbreak Prompts Cancellation of Anniversary Celebration, Overnight Disinfecting at Henderson Elementary

Prince William County Public Schools (PWCPS) officials informed community members that they would be conducting massive cleaning overnight at Henderson Elementary in order to disinfect the school after an outbreak of the flu.

According to a Facebook post on the school district's Facebook page, after a number of people at the school have reported coming down with the flu, officials decided to order the school be cleaned and disinfected overnight on Thursday, to be completed before classes began Friday morning.

School officials have also decided to postpone previously scheduled celebrations for the school's 30th anniversary.

Many parents have praised the school district's decisions regarding the matter on Facebook.

"We don't attend that school, but what a great decision for the safety of students and staff," commented Facebook user Jennifer Ryan. "Well done PWCS!"

Another parent from a different school within the district said the problem is not limited to Henderson.

"Oh goodness. We go to Montclair and quite a few kids have been out with the flu recently too," said Facebook user Marianna Lyuichenko.

Northern Virginia health officials offer four tips for helping protect yourself from the flu, and to help stop its spread:

• Get An Annual Flu Shot - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continue to call annual flu shots "the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses."

• Wash Hands Often - Use soap, and scrub all parts of your hands for at least 20 seconds. This can help prevent the contraction and spread of several illnesses including the flu, the common cold, and even pink eye.

• Cover Coughs and Sneezes - The two best ways to do this are to use a tissue, or use the sleeve of your shirt. Sneezing into clothing kills germs immediately. If you use a tissue, be sure to throw it in the trash immediately.

• Stay Home When Sick - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. They recommend not leaving the house except to seek medical attention, to prevent spreading the illness.