Mar. 20, 2020 -- Late yesterday afternoon, we learned that a Board of Education staff member has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is currently resting and self-quarantining at home. Yesterday evening, a District custodian completely disinfected the building with our Clorox 360 machine. The Cuyahoga County Board of Health has indicated to us that the building is now safe for use; however, as a precaution, the building is completely closed today, March 20. Breakfast/lunch pickup will take place in the parking lot in a “curbside pickup” style. The building will reopen to employees who need access on Monday, March 23.
Health care privacy laws and ethics dictate that we cannot, and should not, reveal this person’s identity or any information that could lead to their identification. The Ohio Department of Health indicated to District administrators today that each known contact who needs to be self-quarantined according to existing protocols will be directly contacted by the local health department. The ODH said the notification process is happening at this time.
As a reminder, symptoms of COVID-19 include a dry cough, difficulty breathing, and fever. If you have these symptoms, immediately call your healthcare provider for medical advice.
The CDC always recommends everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- 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 using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
If you have additional concerns, contact the Ohio Department of Health at 833-4-ASKODH for answers to your questions about COVID-19/coronavirus. A live operator is available from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. every day. You can also visit https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/.
Sincerely,
Superintendent Liz Kirby