Students, teachers at northwest Regina school absent due to illness

A sickness is running through the halls of Henry Janzen Elementary in Regina’s northwest.

Out of 460 students, 69 were out on Monday, 54 on Tuesday and 52 on Wednesday.

As many as ten teachers were absent as well this week.

Regina Public Schools would not reveal what illness is causing the higher than average absenteeism. But a spokesperson said public health was notified and all surfaces were thoroughly cleaned. Sanitizing wipes are now in every classroom.

A letter has been sent home to parents.

RQHR Statement

The Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region looked into the situation and said it appears to be common respiratory and enteric causes for the illnesses.

“The illnesses are likely caused by commonly circulating viruses we see at this time of the year, causing short bouts of diarrheal illness typically described as stomach flu; as well as the common respiratory illnesses seen such as colds and some influenza,” the health region said in a written statement.

“The rapidly down trending absenteeism numbers point to the limited viral illnesses that commonly are seen.”