Princeton Elementary School closes due to illness outbreak

Princeton Elementary School in Camp Springs, Maryland, has closed for the remainder of the week following an outbreak of illnesses among students and staff. According to Prince George’s County Public Schools, 48 students and 16 staff members have reported symptoms described as “influenza-like” and “gastroenteritis-like.”

In consultation with the local health department, officials ordered the closure to facilitate a comprehensive deep cleaning and sanitation of the facility, including classrooms, cafeterias, and restrooms. The shutdown is intended to interrupt contact and allow the infectious period to pass. While the specific virus has not yet been identified, health officials noted that flu activity in Maryland has more than doubled compared to last year.