In response to the growing number of inquiries we’ve received regarding the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), I thought that it was appropriate to stay ahead of this situation and share our genuine concern regarding this growing health crisis. We believe the best way to provide a response to any concerns you may have as a parent is through education. Understanding what the CDC, the WHO (World Health Organization), and other health institutions are dealing with, we must share some insight into this virus. Below is a brief overview of what the community needs to know about COVID -19 as prepared for by Kaiser Permanente Hospitals.
What is coronavirus?
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID -19) is a type of virus that causes respiratory
illness — an infection of the airways and lungs.
What are the symptoms?
Patients with COVID -19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with
symptoms of fever, cough, or shortness of breath — similar to the flu.
How does it spread?
The virus is thought to spread person to person — mainly between people who are
in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through tiny droplets made when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID -19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
How can I protect myself and my loved ones?
Some people are more vulnerable to the virus, including older adults and people with chronic conditions. But everyone should take steps to protect themselves. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Wash your hands with soap and water regularly for at least 20 seconds.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Stay home when you’re sick (except to get medical care). Keep sick children home from school.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. Wash your hands afterward.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
What should I do if I think I have symptoms?
If you develop symptoms (fever, cough, trouble breathing) or you believe you’ve been exposed, it’s important to call Kaiser first so we can direct you to the most appropriate care. Call the advice number on your Kaiser Permanente membership card to speak with a licensed care provider or to schedule a telephone or video appointment with your doctor.
What is Bethany Lutheran doing in response?
First and foremost, we trust firmly in our Lord; however, it is important that as a church and school we are prepared. Therefore, in partnership with the CNH District, we are preparing and not panicking.
- Teachers and staff are really taking more time to clean and sanitize their rooms, equipment, and contact points.
- Our bathrooms are being deep cleaned and sanitized from top to bottom by Cintas twice a month
- Students are being allowed and instructed to wash their hands frequently throughout the day.
- The janitorial staff is utilizing a disinfect which quickly and effectively combats germs. This is an EPA-registered and CDC-approved disinfectant for combatting the Coronavirus. Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens are expected to be effective against COVID-19 based on data for harder to kill viruses. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.).
- Everyone is wearing disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces throughout the day.
Bethany Lutheran will continue to partner with the Vacaville Unified School District in their response to this virus. Meaning should VUSD have cause at some point to close their schools, BLS will consider the same options. Vacaville area schools are communicating with Solano Public Health (SPH) to stay completely informed of all matters pertaining to COVID-19. All BLS families will be updated via email, text, and hard copy should any major developments occur. Together through prayer and steadfast trust in our Lord and Savior, this crisis will be averted.
In HIS Service,
Dr. Chris Smith – Principal
Bethany Lutheran School
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