While the weather remains mild during the winter months, the rate of illnesses in Macon County Schools seems to be running a little above average. Students in area schools were reporting to class only to fall ill, forcing them to leave school early. The culprit is not, however, influenza, better known as the flu virus.

Cindy Gammons, MCHS principal stated most of her students were absent due to a stomach virus. David Flynn, principal of Westside Elementary, also said most of his students were suffering from a stomach virus or upper respiratory problems. He stated, "Although my absenteeism is up a little among students, I'm also having trouble getting substitutes to fill in for sick teachers or those who have to stay home with sick children."

Red Boiling Springs Elementary and High School reported a total of 40-45 students absent earlier this week, about 7% of their total enrollment.

In a three day tally kept by Director of Schools Mike Prock, the absenteeism seems to be growing a little each day. On Friday, February 4, county schools reported 6.6% absent, Monday, February 7, 8.3% was reported, and on Tuesday, February 8, 10.86% was absent, showing an increase daily.

The Farmer's Almanac and common sense tells you to wash your hands several times a day to prevent the spread of germs.

Other helpful hints on ways to avoid or perhaps beat a illnesses are disinfecting a shared telephone with Lysol