DATE: 1/09/22
TO: Howe School Community
FROM: Tammy Fournier
RE: COVID-19 Case Identification
A confirmed case of coronavirus (Covid-19) has been identified at school. We are working closely with the Wayne County Health Department to identify exposures and prevent further cases. This letter is informational only; no further action is required for you at this time. If you have not been contacted by the district nurse or your building administrator, you are not considered to be a close-contact to the positive individual.
I want to thank all staff and students for following through social distancing measures and adhering to all other guidelines, like wearing masks at all times and not being in close contact with anyone for 15 minutes or more. I want to also remind all staff and students that we need to respect everyone’s privacy at all times. Your safety and privacy are important to us. Again, we thank all of you for adhering to all guidelines.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are less than six feet from each other for at least 15 minutes. A person who is a close contact of someone who is infected with COVID-19 may experience COVID-19 symptoms typically within two to fourteen days after a person is exposed.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. Symptoms can include: Fever (>100.4oF), cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, runny or stuffy nose, loss of taste or smell, abdominal pain.
There are many things that can be done to keep our schools, homes, and communities “COVID-19 free” and protect ourselves and loved ones:
- Children and adults should stay home when ill.
- Washing hands often with soap and running warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- If a hand washing station is not available, use hand sanitizer properly. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes must contain at least 60% alcohol. Dispose of wipes in the trash after use.
- Practice Good Respiratory Etiquette (cover a cough with elbow versus hand).
- Follow guidance for wearing a face covering and social distancing.
If you have questions, please contact Wayne County Health Department at 734-727-7078.
Following the guidance of the MI Safe Schools Roadmap, the school has been disinfected. This includes spraying classrooms, hallways, locker rooms, and common areas as needed with a sanitizer, along with other methods of disinfection.
Additional information can be found on the CDC website.