Covid-19 was on the rise this summer, with hospitals reporting almost a 25% increase in emergency cases relating to the coronavirus. In recent weeks, Saint Stephen’s has experienced aspike in students and staff cases,, and athletics and academics have seen the effects in attendance and faculty absences.

So with the rise in cases nation-wide and on campus, is this something the school community should be worried about?  And if so, what can be done to curb the spread?

Upper School Director Mrs. Anna Conn expressed concerns about the increase in cases.

“I’m worried,” Mrs. Conn said. “Safety and health is number one always.”

In a recent report, the Center for Disease Control released data detailing the rise in Covid-19 cases in states. The statistics they collected showed a substantial surplus in states centered around tourism, like Nevada, Maryland and Florida.

 This should come as no surprise. During the summer trends show diseases increasing in transmission due to growth in traveling, increased contact, and many people staying indoors to escape the sweltering heat. 

As a result, the impacts have made their way to campus. School Nurse Mrs. Tomlinson reported that not only Covid, but several viruses have been seen across campus. 

“We’ve seen quite a few cases of flu,” Tomlinson said. “…not just in our school but in our community.” 

Mrs. Tomlinson reassured that she isn’t too concerned about the situation at this juncture.

“If it became severe we would have to figure it out,” Tomlinson said. “Right now we’ve been encouraging people to adhere to what we say for when to be here and when not to be here.” 

When it comes to showing flu-like symptoms, the school recommends staying home, particularly if there is a fever involved.  

Mrs. Conn shared her worries about students’ emotional and mental health suffering from being sick.

She said her main concern for students is, “…missing school and getting bogged down by homework…instead of worrying about getting healthy and well.”

While it does not look like Covid-19 will be taking students out of classes again, it has already had effects on athletic teams and classrooms. The sports teams at SSES have suffered at practice, with, in some cases,  nearly half of teams missing due to Covid or other illness. 

Despite sick students missing school, the administration has been working to accommodate absent students. In the meantime they have encouraged students to practice preventative health measures, such as practicing hygiene, being mindful of those exhibiting symptoms, and to make sure they are protecting themselves and others.