Updates on COVID-19
Coronavirus Prep Plan
March 3, 2020
Dear Parent/Guardian:
While the Oxford Academy and Central School District does not have a confirmed case of COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in our schools, we are aware of concerns in the community about the spread of this relatively new virus.
The district is
closely monitoring this fluid situation and following guidance from the U.S.
Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH),
Chenango County Department of Health and the New York State Education
Department.
Based on recent
reports, COVID-19 is not actively circulating in New York state at this
time.
If the district becomes aware that a student or staff member is diagnosed with COVID-19, it will immediately notify staff and parents/guardians. If a student or staff member shows respiratory symptoms, we will follow our current practices for handling respiratory illnesses, subject to any additional guidance forthcoming.
The district has
infectious disease protocols in place and has been taking steps, such as
cleaning and disinfecting throughout its schools, to minimize the spread of
viruses and a variety of other illnesses.
There are a number of steps that
students, staff and community members can take to minimize the spread of all
respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, according to the state Department of
Health:
- Wash
your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and
water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Heavily
soiled hands should be washed.
- Avoid
touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close
contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home
when you 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.
If you or a family member begin showing symptoms of a respiratory disease and suspect it may be COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider. 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 emerges. The district is prepared to work
with any affected families.
Families are also encouraged to follow the CDC’s information for travel, available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html. For more information, consider consulting
these additional resources:
In addition, New York has established a Novel
Coronavirus Hotline, which can provide additional information. Call
1-888-364-3065 with questions or concerns about travel and symptoms.
The district will
continue to share information as it becomes available.
Please know that,
as always, the health and safety of our students and staff is our highest
priority, and we will remain vigilant in our efforts to help prevent the spread
of this illness.
Sincerely,
John Hillis
Superintendent