Dexter Schools shuts early as illness outbreak sweeps through classrooms

Dexter Schools USD #471 has closed early for winter break due to a sharp rise in illnesses among students and staff. Located around 70 miles southeast of Wichita, near the Oklahoma border, the school reported that up to 35% of pupils were absent within the first hour of classes on Monday. Free testing for Flu A/B, RSV, Strep A, and COVID is now being offered on site to help monitor the situation.

The school decided to dismiss students and staff three days ahead of schedule after illness spread rapidly through classrooms. Symptoms reported include respiratory problems, vomiting, diarrhoea, body aches, fevers, bronchitis, strep throat, and severe headaches. Some cases have already been confirmed as RSV and influenza.

While Kansas currently has low overall respiratory illness levels, national data shows seasonal flu activity is rising. RSV cases are also climbing in Southeastern, Southern, and mid-Atlantic states. Despite these trends, specific local figures for Dexter Schools or the surrounding region remain unavailable.

Classes are set to resume on Monday, January 5. The school has not yet announced whether additional precautions will be in place upon reopening.

Free testing for multiple respiratory illnesses continues to be available at the school. Officials will likely monitor attendance and infection rates closely when students return next week. The early closure aims to reduce further spread before the new term begins.