GUIDANCE

2023-24 School Year

 

 

ABOUT CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease that can lead to fever, coughing, trouble breathing and/or shortness of breath. While many of cases lead to mild symptoms, there can be life-threatening cases, especially among older adults and those who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals. The new strand is a “novel” coronavirus that originated in China late in 2019.

 

WHAT YOU CAN DO (PREVENTION)

There are currently no vaccines available to protect against this virus, but as with most illnesses and viruses, there are everyday measures you can take to prevent the spread.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use at least 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick and keep your child home when they are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Families are also encouraged to follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s travel information available here.

WHAT YOU CAN DO IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE COVID-19

If you or a family member begin showing symptoms of respiratory disease and suspect it may be COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Before going to your healthcare provider’s office, inform them that a case of COVID-19 is suspected, and follow their advice. Local health departments will contact schools if a suspected or known COVID-19 case is confirmed.