The following is a press release from KFLA Public Health:
Due to a rise in COVID-19 cases in schools in the KFL&A region, we understand that many local families may be feeling some uncertainty about sending students to school. We recognize your concerns and want to reassure you that the health and safety of students and staff is our priority. We are working together with school boards to take all necessary steps to prevent further spread of the virus both in the school and the community.
“We are confident in the school’s protocols and recognize the importance of keeping schools open for the mental, social, and physical well being of all students,” said Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “Initial school investigations of positive cases reveal transmission is occurring outside of the school environment (e.g., neighbour activities or play dates). It is strongly recommended that even if students/staff are attending school with a single symptom (e.g., runny nose) they should avoid socializing at unstructured activities.”
In our region, we have been fortunate to have maintained consistently low infection rates throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a critical time for individuals and families to continue to adhere to public health measures (e.g., screen students each day before school, stay home when ill, practice good hand hygiene, wear a mask, and physically distance).
Continue to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and screen all students daily as most cases of COVID-19 are acquired in the home setting. If anyone in your household has or develops symptoms of COVID-19, they must self-isolate and should book an appointment at an assessment centre for testing as soon as possible. It is required that all household members that are NOT fully vaccinated must isolate until the individual with symptoms receives a negative COVID-19 test result or an alternative diagnosis from a health care professional.
If no one in your house has symptoms and no one has been advised to isolate, everyone can continue to go to work, school, or child care.
We all have a role to play to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community, and the ongoing efforts of community members, health professionals, educators, families, and students will all contribute to a safe and healthy school environment.
To learn more about COVID-19, how you can protect yourself and what to do if you suspect you may be at risk, visit kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.