Based on the recommendation of public health officials, Oak Hill Elementary School in Newton County will be closed for both students and staff Friday, Dec. 12 due to an outbreak of gastroenteritis.

A large number of Oak Hill students have shown symptoms of the virus, causing the Newton County Health Department to recommend closure.

Gastroenteritis often causes diarrhea and/or vomiting. According to Health Department officials, these symptoms usually develop in one to two days after exposure and most people get better in one to 10 days without medication.

According to a release by the Newton County School System, it is working closely with the Newton County Health Department following recommendations for cleaning the school and monitoring students who become ill.

In order to protect your family from this illness, health officials also recommend the following precautions:

• Watch your child and members of your family to see if they develop diarrhea, and/or vomiting.
• If your child develops diarrhea, contact your child's physician. Inform your doctor that students diagnosed with gastroenteritis attend your child's school.
• Encourage your child and family members to thoroughly wash their hands before preparing or eating food, after using the toilet, and upon returning home from school in the afternoons.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizers often are NOT effective against these types of viruses so be sure to use soap and water when washing your hands.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact your child's physician. You may also contact the Newton County Health Department at (770) 339-4260.

NCSS anticipates Oak Hill will reopen Monday, Dec. 15. However, if a student exhibits symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea on Sunday, Dec. 14, NCSS asks they remain kept at home until they are symptom-free without medication for 24 hours.