Sunday, March 1, 2020

And if you're in Worcester, and have been seeking local Coronavirus information

The Superintendent just sent out a Connect-Ed call which referenced the website. If you're having trouble finding it, it's at:

About>Departments & Offices>Nursing>Coronavirus Information https://worcesterschools.org/about/departments-offices/nursing/coronavirus-information/

It looks as though the fact sheet the City is sharing is only in English, which we're going to need to do better on.

At this point, what is the main emphasis from the Worcester Department of Public Health?
First, there remains a single confirmed case in Massachusetts. The risk of contracting this remains very low.
As for all such illnesses:
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 
  • 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.  
  • 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.

UPDATE: So let's turn this post into a FAQ, since I've seen some queries coming in.
If I know, I'll answer. If I don't, I'll see what I can find out and update accordingly.

Q: We're being told that handwashing is one of the most important things we can do. Do the Worcester Schools have enough soap and paper towels?
First, if you're surprised by this question, welcome to the world of budgeting facilties at 60% of foundation. Second, yes, the district is not going through one of the years where this is an issue, so if you're finding a bathroom or a school that is short, pass the word, as the district does have supplies.

Q: Even though we know coronavirus isn't an issue here as yet, there are other illnesses going around. How do the Worcester Schools handle cleaning during this season? 
What is called "touch surface cleaning" (aka: surfaces that are touched) is common practice at this time of year. Special cleaning happens at the request of a school or nursing department when there is a concentration of illness at a school; that has happened a few times this year, as it generally does.


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