WHITEHOUSE, Texas — Whitehouse ISD has released a statement to parents and guardians assuring them that the district is "closely monitoring" reports regarding coronavirus (COVID-19).
"Whitehouse ISD is coordinating prevention efforts with the Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) and continues to monitor the situation and prepare for the possibility of confirmed cases closer to home in East Texas or our district. As we have done in the past with other outbreaks of viruses. WISD is prepared to implement and follow protocols and guidelines as directed by health authorities if necessary," the district stated.
COVID-19 is believed to be spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how the flu and other respiratory viruses spread.
The district also provides basic prevention measures everyone should follow to avoid the flu and other common seasonal respiratory illnesses:
- Everyone 6 months and older is encourages to get a flu shot
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
"You should also know that throughout the school year, and in the winter months especially, our WISD team works closely with our school nurses to monitor illnesses, such as the flu. We also work with our custodial teams to ensure our campuses receives more frequent and thorough cleanings during flu season, especially in high-traffic, high-touch areas," WISD Superintendent Christopher Moran said.
The district assures they will continue to be in contact with local health officials and monitor the COVID-19 situation and will provide updates to the Whitehouse community should it become necessary.
You can monitor the latest CDC updates at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/.
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