Dear WWS Parents,
As you are likely aware, on Tuesday, February 25th, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) gave a press conference updating the country on the current status of the coronavirus (COVID-19), and what steps should be taken moving forward. We wanted to share with you some of the steps our school is taking to prevent the spread of illness across our campus, and plan for the possible spread of the coronavirus in our community.
As of today, there is only one confirmed case of coronavirus in Los Angeles County. Medical professionals expect that the number of cases in the overall United States will increase. Just as with cases of pertussis, measles, and other infectious illnesses, the LA County Department of Public Health provides quick and clear guidance to cities, schools, and the medical community should they encounter cases of coronavirus.
Standard precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as cold and flu apply to COVID-19. These precautions include:
- Asking all faculty, staff, and students who are feeling ill to stay home until they recover.
- Asking faculty, staff, and students to notify the school attendance office of any international travel.
- Washing 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.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow, then throw the tissue in the trash.
We are exploring how to alter our procedures and planning should the situation change, [including strategies like virtual schooling]. We are also thinking ahead regarding the impact of spring travel, upcoming school trips, and other non-typical school activities will have in the context of the coronavirus. We will communicate any changes when the time is appropriate.
It is important to remember that handling the spread of a serious contagion like the coronavirus is primarily a task for public health agencies. Any directives from the World Health Organization, CDC, or local governmental organizations should be followed. The LA County Department of Public Health has updated its guidance to the public and public agencies. All travelers (including students and staff) returning from mainland China, and other international areas of concern, are being asked to socially distance themselves for up to 14 days since their last visit to these areas. This means that any of our staff or students returning from mainland China or other international areas should not be attending school until after the 14-day period. This information is being disseminated to returning travelers at the customs checkpoint in LAX and monitored through the LACDPH.
Please refer to the
CDC Travelers' Health
page and follow appropriate safety precautions while traveling and after returning home.
In times like this, we are particularly grateful for the strength and togetherness of this community. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep our community informed.
Sincerely,
The Leadership Council