Monitoring Coronavirus COVID-19

Monitoring Coronavirus COVID-19
Monitoring Coronavirus COVID-19

Dear Jeffco Public Schools Families, Staff, and Community:

Jeffco Public Schools has been coordinating with local public health agencies as we monitor the global outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), keeping in close contact with Jeffco Public Health Department (JCPH) and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) on this subject. 

We have created a dedicated page about Coronavirus (COVID-19) on our district website to share information and tips on reducing the spread of disease. Our “Highly Infectious Emergency Preparedness Plan” is posted on our health services webpage.

While there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Colorado to date, we want to take this opportunity to provide you information about how Jeffco Public Schools is monitoring this issue and what you can expect in the event of a major outbreak in Colorado.

What is Jeffco Public Schools Doing?

Since the beginning of the outbreak, Jeffco Public Schools has been collaborating with our public health partners. The school district has an infectious disease preparedness plan and we work in coordination with these agencies to ensure the continuity of learning throughout any such situation.

It is important to know that during a major outbreak, we would follow the health department’s lead on any quarantines, closures, or other health measures needed. Our focus has been on how to ensure the safety of students and staff, and how education can continue. In addition, the district would use various electronic systems to allow for student learning remotely during this period.

We have received a number of questions regarding students or families who have recently traveled internationally. As you may know, protocols have been put in place to evaluate and, in some cases, quarantine passengers as they return to the United States. Our public health partners are not recommending additional actions by school districts at this time.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. These viruses spread through coughing or sneezing, much like the flu. There is no vaccine for the COVID-19. 

What can I do to stay healthy?

Again, the current risk to the general public in the U.S. from this virus is currently considered low, however just as is recommended for other respiratory viruses, people can protect themselves and others through some simple actions.

Protecting yourself from Coronavirus COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses (source: CDPHE):

If you are healthy:

● Continue your normal routine. This means you can continue to participate in public gatherings such as work, school, or social activities.

● Get your flu shot, and stay up-to-date on other routine childhood and adult immunizations.

● Wash your hands with soap and water or, at minimum, use an alcohol-based hand rub, which may be less effective than soap and water.

● Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.

● Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as desks, doorknobs, handrails.

 

If you are sick:

● Stay home

● Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your inner elbow shirt sleeve.

● Wash your hands with soap and water or, at minimum, alcohol-based hand rub, which may be less effective than soap and water.

● Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

● Avoid close contact with anyone else with cold or flu-like symptoms.

● Get your flu shot, and stay up-to-date on other routine childhood and adult immunizations.

● Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as desks, doorknobs, and handrails. 

Additionally, we have stringent cleaning practices in place at all of our district schools and facilities to help avoid disease transmission. Our custodial services staff are receiving additional training and are monitoring the situation to ensure safe practices are in place.

Feeling Sick? Stay Home!

As always, we encourage anyone who is feeling ill to stay home, especially if they are experiencing the symptoms listed in our Too Sick for School? guidelines. 

In sharing this information with you today, our intention is to provide factual information about Coronavirus COVID-19 and tips on reducing the spread of disease. We will continue to update families and staff as we know more about the potential progression. As a community, we must work together for the safety and well-being of all of us and we appreciate your ongoing support of our schools.

Jeffco Public Schools Department of Health Services 


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