Dear Parent/Guardian,
A new coronavirus called 2019 Novel (new) Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) was first found in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. This virus had not been found in humans before. There are thousands of diagnosed cases in China and new cases being diagnosed in a number of countries including the United States. The disease spreads mainly from person to person, between two people who are in close contact (within 6 feet of one another). Respiratory droplets can infect other people through coughs and sneezes, these droplets can land in the mouth or noses of people who are nearby or can be inhaled into the lungs.
Prevention
There are currently no vaccines available to protect against Corona virus. The Centers of Disease Control and Idaho Department of Health & Welfare recommends students, staff, and volunteers should:
Stay home when sick until at least 24 hours after fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
Cover coughs or sneezes with a bent arm or tissue and wash hands afterwards.
Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, dry hands with a paper towel, and use the paper towel to turn off the faucet.
Try to keep hands away from nose, mouth, and eyes.
Avoid sharing food, drinks, cosmetics or personal care items (lip balm, eye drops, etc.).
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Symptoms
Information to date suggests that 2019-nCoV causes mild-to-moderate illness and symptoms similar to influenza, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
This is an emerging, rapidly changing situation and Buhl School District will follow the guidance of South Central Public Health as it progresses. For questions please contact your physician or the local department of health. We encourage you to keep up to date about 2019-nCoV, its treatment and prevention by visiting the following websites:
Visit CDC'c dedicated COVID-19 website at https://www.cdc.gov/nCoV
CDC's COVID-19 factsheet https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/2019-ncov-factsheet.pdf
Sincerely,
Ronald Anthony, Superintendent
Rachel Cluff, RN
JoAnna Horting, RN