Dear Burlington parents, staff and community members:
As of today, BPS has 4 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases within our staff. While we must protect the privacy of those involved, we believe it is best to communicate transparently with you, so you can make well-informed decisions for your family.
The safety and health of our students, our staff and their families is important to us. We are working directly with county health officials to address this situation. They have recommended we share the following with you: You should monitor your child closely for symptoms of COVID-19 and seek medical attention and testing if symptoms develop. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, excessive tiredness, nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, sore throat, congestion, cough, difficulty breathing, and loss of sense of taste or smell. If your child was in direct contact, you have received a phone call or letter at this point. We will continue to update you as more information comes available.
COVID-19 is transmitted through person-to-person contact and through the exchange of respiratory droplets. As more cases are being confirmed across the state, including in our community, we must be vigilant. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you or any member of your family exhibit these symptoms, please contact your medical provider for advice immediately. Symptoms usually appear 2-14 days after exposure.
The CDC recommends the following best practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
- Stay at home when you are sick.
- Practice social distancing, leaving at least six feet between you and other people.
- Wear a cloth mask in public when you cannot social distance.
Our greatest priority is the safety of our students, staff and community members. It is important to remember that children are greatly influenced by the reactions of adults when facing difficult circumstances. I encourage everyone to remain calm and to be empathic and respectful to those affected.
Sincerely,
Dr. Croft