FYI:
Over the past week, there have been many news reports regarding the potential spread of the Novel Corona Virus, now called COVID-19. While this is a public health concern, both the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) continue to report that the immediate risk to the general public remains low.
In fact, the Mass DPH has shared guidance for school administrators regarding COVID-19, and as of today, February 27, 2020, Massachusetts only has one confirmed case and the risk to Massachusetts residents remains low. However, as stated in my post on flu season last month, the risk for the influenza virus remains high and residents are much more likely to become sick
with a cold or flu than to be exposed to COVID-19
We will continue to follow this evolving situation through regular contact with the Mass DPH and the local board of health. Please be assured that we are following all recommended guidelines put forth by the CDC and MASS DPH, and will continue to share information if necessary.
For more information regarding COVID-19 please go to:
We must continue to be vigilant in following the guidelines and tips below to prevent the cold and flu:
*****Most importantly, PLEASE DO NOT send your child back to school until he/she has been fever-free WITHOUT MEDICATION for 24 hours.******
Medications like Tylenol Cold and Flu can mask, or lower your child’s fever, but that does not mean that your child
is no longer contagious and is ready to return to school.
Therefore, we ask that you please adhere to these guidelines and make a note of the suggested habits.
Let’s work together to keep our school community and our homes as healthy as possible!
Exclusion Periods:
Please do NOT send your student to school if he/she has had:
1. Fever over 100 F within the last 24 hours (must be fever free without medication)
2. Vomiting or diarrhea within the last 24 hours
3. Continuous coughing not relieved with cough medicine
4. Strep throat. They may return 24 hours after starting antibiotics
5. Please check with the School Nurse or your doctor about other illnesses
6. Please remember to notify the Front Office or the School Nurse if your child has a contagious illness
Helpful Tips for Staying Healthy:
1. Frequent handwashing is the BEST way to prevent and combat the spread of germs! Wash hands often with soap and
water or hand sanitizer.
2. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or use an elbow or arm if no tissue is available
3. Do not share drinks, food or unwashed utensils
4. Get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods and drink lots of water
5. Avoid people that are sick and stay home when you are sick
6. Disinfect surfaces that are prone to germs (phones, keyboards, doorknobs, toothbrushes, etc.)