KILGORE, Texas — There are no reported cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the East Texas area. However, Kilgore ISD released a statement of the precautionary measures they are taking to ensure the health and safety of students and staff members.
According to the district, Kilgore ISD cleans and disinfects classrooms, campus doors, student desks, water fountains, doorknobs, school bus seating, locker rooms, student and staff restrooms, etc., each day.
"At least once a week our custodial cleaning staff looks to “deep clean” the common surfaces in classrooms and offices. In addition, each school day our younger students are shown proper procedures for washing their hands and our older students are reminded about the importance of frequently washing their hands," the district stated.
The district says they remain in contact and collaborate with the CDC website and local East Texas Education Service Center to gain information and review plans to help protect students, staff, and community.
How does COVID-19 spread? COVID-19 is spread in a very similar manner as the common cold and Flu. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Touching a surface or object (shaking hands, public water fountains, doorknobs, etc) that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, and eyes is thought to be the main cause of how COVID-19 spreads.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19? Symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to colds and Flu. The CDC reports that COVID-19 illness thus far has ranged from mild symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath to severe illness requiring a Doctor’s care.
How can you help prevent the spread of COVID-19? The CDC reports that there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. Everyday common practices that may prevent the spread of colds, Flu, and the COVID-19 virus include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay at home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw away the tissue.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with regular household spray or wipes (cell phones, computer keys, doorknobs, steering wheels, remote controls, etc.).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- The CDC does not recommend that people who are well wearing a facemask to protect themselves from any respiratory disease, including COVID-19. Facemasks should only be used by people who show symptoms in order to help prevent the spread of a virus to others.
For more updates about the coronavirus visit CDC.gov.