Marin flu outbreak hits Bolinas-Stinson schools; 40 out

Marin County is reporting its largest outbreak of flu-like illness so far this respiratory virus season — about 40 children at Bolinas-Stinson Union School District, roughly 30% of the school system’s average daily attendance, were out sick this week. 

It’s not clear whether all the cases are flu since many people don’t test, but there was one confirmed case of flu and many students had flulike symptoms, said Melanie Thompson, the county’s deputy health officer. 

“It’s not unusual to see outbreaks this time of year,” Thompson said, noting that there are several viruses circulating including influenza, RSV and norovirus. “We’re just now starting to see flu cases pick up.” 

Schools report outbreaks to the county health department when the number of students with symptoms reaches 10% of average daily attendance. This reporting threshold also applies to long-term care facilities. There have been no outbreaks reported from long-term care facilities so far this respiratory virus season, Thompson said. 

Thompson said there’s no indication this year’s flu is causing more severe symptoms than previous strains. 

“Kids are infectious before they report symptoms, so they’ve already gone to school and are touching things, their faces, one another,” she said. “So children can spread the virus before they feel sick. That’s why at this time of year it’s not unexpected, and why outbreaks can grow quickly in schools.” 

Thompson encouraged people to stay home if they feel sick, wash their hands often and get vaccinated. Such steps may not prevent all infections, but they significantly lower the risk of hospitalization and severe illness.