February 12, 2025 3:50 a.m.

Due to a fast-moving illness running through the community, officials with the South Umpqua School District have closed South Umpqua High School for the rest of the week.

Information on the district website said this week over 50 percent of SUHS students are out with similar flu-like symptoms. After consulting with the Douglas Public Health Network, the decision to close the school was made.

The closure will allow the many students who are ill to recover, as well as limit the spread of the illness. Staff will also be able to do a deep cleaning of the facility to further limit the spread of this illness. High school students will return to school next Tuesday, February 18th, following the President’s Day holiday.

The district said the closure does not impact extra-curricular activities, including athletics. Students participating will not be present if they are showing any sign of illness.

The closeure impacts South Umpqua High School only. All other schools in the district are operating on a normal schedule. Families are asked to take universal precautions to avoid illness, including frequent hand washing. Children who are ill should be kept at home.