2 PG County Students Die From Flu, Superintendent Says

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Two Prince George's County Public School students have died from influenza, the superintendent confirmed in a letter to the community.

The deaths come amid one of the worst flu seasons in a decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there have been at least 40 million illnesses, 520,000 hospitalizations and 22,000 deaths from flu this season. Among the reported deaths were 114 children.

In a letter shared on the school system's website, Superintendent Millard House II said Prince George's County has been feeling the impact of rising flu cases with increasing numbers across the county and outbreaks in several schools.

"Tragically, we have lost two students," House said. "Our hearts are with their families and loved ones during this difficult time."

The students attended CMIT North Elementary School in Laurel and John Bayne Elementary School in Capitol Heights, according to a News4 report.

PGCPS proposed several measures to limit the spread of the flu, including keeping sick students home.

"If your child is experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, or body aches, please do not send them to school. We also encourage families to consider flu vaccinations, which can significantly reduce the severity of illness," officials said.

The Prince George’s County Health Department offers flu vaccines at the Cheverly Health Department from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional resources can be found at pgcps.org/flu.

PGCPS also has taken immediate proactive measures to slow the spread of the flu, officials said, including:

• Enhanced Cleaning: Increased disinfection of high-touch areas in schools and buses.
• Handwashing & Hygiene: Schools will offer ample soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer, along with reminders for proper handwashing.
• Temporary Masking: If flu cases reach critical levels in a school, masking may be required to safeguard students and staff.
• On-Site Flu Vaccination: PGCPS is partnering with the Prince George’s County Health Department to provide flu vaccines in affected schools.
• Limiting Exposure: Students will be kept in consistent groups when possible to limit interactions and contain outbreaks.
• Extracurricular Adjustments: PGCPS will modify or postpone high-contact activities and large gatherings as needed.
• Ongoing Monitoring: PGCPS continues to track illness trends, work closely with local health officials and update families regularly.