Press Release: Back to School Beat the Bugs
Health Department Posted on August 17, 2026
Beat the Back-to-School Bugs: Rowan County Public Health Encourages Families to Stay Healthy This School Year
For Immediate Release
Salisbury, NC - As the new school year begins, Rowan County Public Health encourages parents, students, and school staff to take simple, everyday steps to prevent the spread of common illnesses and help keep children healthy, in school, and ready to learn.
Back-to-school season often brings an increase in respiratory illnesses, stomach viruses, strep throat, flu, and other contagious infections. Close contact in classrooms, cafeterias, buses, and school activities can make it easier for germs to spread.
Practicing good hygiene, staying home when sick, and following prevention guidance can help families protect their children and the broader school community.
Tips to Beat the Back-to-School Bugs
Rowan County Public Health recommends the following strategies:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.
- Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations to help protect against serious illness.
- Keep sick children home when they have a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or other symptoms of a contagious illness.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as desks, phones, keyboards, and doorknobs.
- Get plenty of sleep, stay active, and choose nutritious foods to support a strong immune system.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Know When to Stay Home
Parents and caregivers should monitor children for signs of illness and keep them home from school when appropriate. Children should generally stay home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and are well enough to participate in normal activities.
Back-to-School Health Services
Rowan County Public Health is also making it easier for families to get ready for the new school year. The Family Health Clinic generally has same-day availability for families who need care, making it convenient to address health needs before or during the school year.
The clinic also offers sports physicals for a flat fee of $30 out-of-pocket cost and is not billed through insurance.
In addition, Rowan County Public Health will host school-aged student walk-in vaccine clinics on September 11th and 15th, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Families can walk in during these hours to help ensure their children are up to date on recommended vaccinations for the school year.
Partnering for a Healthy School Year
Public health, schools, families, and healthcare providers all play an important role in limiting the spread of illness. By working together and encouraging healthy habits, the community can help reduce absenteeism and support a successful school year for all students. Families who have questions about vaccinations, illness prevention, or other public health services are encouraged to contact Rowan County Public Health at 704-216-8782.
Download: Press Release: Back to School Beat the Bugs
This press release has been prepared by the Rowan County Public Health Department through interdepartmental collaboration, with the purpose of informing the public about current or emerging public health matters. For more information, please contact the Public Information Officer (PIO).
Contact:
Amy Smith
(704) 216-8859
Amy.Smith@rowancountync.gov
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