January 8, 2020
Dear Parent/Guardian,
An individual that is associated with Marion Public Schools has tested positive for COVID-19. In accordance with the State of Michigan and with our Health Department we have been in close contact with Central Michigan Health Department regarding contact tracing and the next steps involved. The Health Department is investigating the situation and are working with the school to identify the close contacts that will need to stay home in quarantine. I assure you that we will take all the necessary steps to protect the safety of our children and staff.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is spread most commonly from person to person, through respiratory droplets made when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It spreads easiest when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet for at least 15 minutes). You can also get COVID-19 by having direct physical contact with someone that is infected, like touching, hugging, or kissing, as well as sharing eating or drinking utensils. It may also 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. Once infected, illness begins within 2 to 14 days.
We ask that you help protect your family and your community from this disease by taking the following steps.
Monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 illness, which include:
fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. It is recommended you get tested for COVID-19 if you do get symptoms.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially before eating, after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home if you are sick.
Avoid gathering in groups, stay at least 2 arms’ length (about 6 feet) apart from others, and stay out of crowded areas.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often at least once a day.
More information can also be found at: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Sincerely,
Steve Brimmer
Mr. Steve Brimmer
Superintendent
Marion Public Schools