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FROM STAFF REPORTS

Those wanting to protect themselves from coronavirus, or COVID-19, should observe the same practices as when trying to avoid the flu virus, according to an official statement from Shelby County Schools to parents on Friday, Feb. 28.

Media coverage and ongoing discussion about coronavirus on the local, state and national levels are what prompted the response.

“In Shelby County, the safety and well-being of our students and their families, our staff and the community at large is a top priority,” said Schools Superintendent Dr. Lewis Brooks. “We are monitoring this situation and have received guidance from the Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama State Department of Education, and the Centers for Disease Control.”

Since symptoms and the ways by which the virus is transmitted are similar to those of the flu, the ADPH and CDC recommend the following:

• Continuous cleaning and disinfecting of commonly shared surfaces.
• Encouraging and teaching good hand washing and cough/sneeze etiquette.
• Promoting the “24-hour fever-free without the use of fever-reducing medications” practice as advised by both the CDC and ADPH.
• Encouraging staff and students to avoid close contact with people who are sick.

“Be assured that we will remain in constant communication with our state and local partners and will be responsive to their guidance,” Brooks said. “Our nurse supervisor, Treasa Daly, has been and will continue to closely advise school nurses in regard to this matter.”