Marlette Community Schools has been closely following the situation in West Michigan regarding Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). We will continue to be diligent in evaluating the risks of EEE.

After careful consideration, Marlette Community Schools will maintain current outdoor activity schedules at this time. The factors contributing to this decision include the following:

• Elementary recess takes place during the day when the risk is lowest.

• Nearly all practices take place immediately after school during daylight hours.

• For activities that do take place at or after dusk, or in more natural areas (i.e. Cross Country, Golf, and Marching Band), we encourage our students, coaches, and staff to follow the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommendations to reduce their risk:

o Apply insect repellent prior to spending time outdoors. If you choose to apply insect repellent to your elementary student, please do so prior to the start of the school day.

o Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible. o Be aware of the signs of EEE and contact your doctor immediately, should your student experience any symptoms.

• Other precautions to be taken at home, in addition to all of the above, include:

o Maintaining window and door screens;

o Using nets or fans over outdoor eating areas.

Additionally, the District has been diligent to monitor playgrounds, athletic fields, and other property to eliminate any standing water that could encourage mosquitoes to breed. We will continue to watch the developments surrounding EEE closely, and will take the appropriate steps necessary to protect the health of all of our students, coaches and staff. For more information about EEE, please connect with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or the Sanilac County Health Department.