Flu Outbreak Forces Woodbury Math and Science Academy to Shift to Virtual Learning

Last week, Woodbury’s Math and Science Academy moved to virtual learning amidst a flu outbreak for the final three days before winter break.

“It was becoming difficult for teachers to move forward with lessons because some classes were missing more than half the students,” said the academy’s Executive Director Dr. Kate Hinton.

According to reporting by the Pioneer Press, the Math and Science Academy in Woodbury reported that more than 20% of its students have contracted influenza or influenza-like illness. This surpasses the 10% reporting threshold required by the Minnesota Department of Health.

“I never thought we would have to move to digital learning again since COVID eased up. However, this is a good option when illness rates get high. I hope not to ever have to do this again, but the health and safety of our students is always our top priority,” Hinton added.

Influenza A is the most predominant strand circulating globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Influenza activity has increased since October but remains within the usual ranges for this time of year despite “higher activity than typical… observed in some regions.”