A growing number of schools in Indiana are moving to e-learning due to a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses among students and staff.

Schools like Horizon Christian School in Indianapolis and Northeastern Wayne Schools have reported significant absences as flu, pneumonia, and norovirus continue to spread. With over 20% of students and staff falling sick, officials decided that temporary remote learning was the best way to prevent further transmission. The decision highlights growing concerns over how easily illnesses spread in crowded school settings.

What’s Causing the Illness Outbreak?

Health experts say the surge in sickness is due to a mix of seasonal flu, norovirus, and pneumonia.

Dr. Eric Yancy, a pediatrician in Indianapolis, warns that respiratory illnesses spread before symptoms appear.

“You can actually spread it 24 to 30 hours before you feel sick,” he explained. “That means someone can unknowingly carry the virus, attend school, and pass it to others before developing symptoms.”

Because viruses like flu and norovirus spread through droplets from coughing and sneezing, schools become hotspots for infections. Large gatherings create the perfect conditions for viruses to spread rapidly.

Why Are Schools Moving to E-Learning?

To prevent further outbreaks, affected schools have decided to switch to remote learning for a few days. This will give sick students time to recover at home while also allowing schools to thoroughly clean classrooms.

However, Dr. Yancy warns that e-learning will only work if students avoid public gatherings.

“If students go to malls or restaurants instead of staying home, the virus will keep spreading,” he said.

Will Other Schools Follow?

The Indiana Department of Education is closely monitoring the situation. If more schools report rising illnesses, additional schools may also adopt e-learning as a precaution.

As of now, the Indiana State Department of Health urges schools to continue enforcing sanitation measures and encourage vaccination against flu and pneumonia.

How Can Parents and Students Stay Safe?

Health experts recommend simple preventative steps to reduce the risk of illness:

Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow to prevent the spread of droplets.

Stay home when sick to avoid infecting others.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like desks, doorknobs, and keyboards.

Get vaccinated for flu and pneumonia to reduce severe illness.

Dr. Yancy also cautions parents against giving aspirin to children with flu symptoms, as it increases the risk of Reye Syndrome, a serious condition affecting the liver and brain.

Final Thoughts

The rise in respiratory illnesses in Indiana highlights the importance of proactive health measures. Schools are making tough decisions to protect students and staff, but parents and communities must also play their part.

If illness rates continue to rise, more schools may shift to e-learning.

Doctors stress the need for vaccination, hygiene, and staying home when sick.

By working together, Indiana can slow the spread of illness and keep students healthy.

For now, schools are urging families to remain vigilant, follow health guidelines, and stay informed about potential closures.