Lincoln Elementary fights flu

Jamel Major/NBC 13
Published: February 13, 2008

When it comes to dealing with the flu, Lincoln Elementary kindergarten teacher Christy Shomber isn't taking any chances.

Several students in her kindergarten class have been out sick this week. Shomber said it’s a cause for concern.

"Attendance is important, and when they're out with the flu, they get really behind," Shomber said.

Lincoln Elementary is taking drastic measures to protect everyone. Paper plates are now being used in the school's cafeteria.

"The plates are more sanitary and more convenient because it goes straight in the trash. We don't have to worry about washing anything," said Janice George, a Lincoln Elementary cafeteria worker.

In addition to using paper products, the school is also urging students and faculty to do other things to remain germ-free, including using hand sanitizer.

The school is also "cleaning door handles, going into classrooms and restrooms, using Clorox wipes or disinfecting wipes to clean computer keyboards, anything children touch a lot," said Lincoln Elementary principal Donna Hudson.

Hudson said she's also urging teachers to talk to students about the importance of handwashing and keeping germs from spreading.

"We talk a lot about keeping your hands out of your mouth, away from your faces, coughing into your elbows, sneezing into your elbows," Hudson said.