Magazine Schools is closely monitoring information about the coronavirus, and making plans in order to quickly respond if the need should arise. As with any communicable disease or potential outbreak, we work with the Arkansas Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control to follow their recommendations to ensure we are protecting our students and staff. As of today, no cases have been confirmed in Arkansas. At this time, school officials have not been given information regarding any students and/or staff being exposed to the virus.
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses known to the medical community since the 1960’s, which may cause mild respiratory illnesses such as the common cold. A new coronavirus, now known as COVID-19, was detected in humans in late 2019. Illnesses of COVID-19 have reportedly ranged from mild to severe. Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is the best approach to maintaining the health of our families and staff. Recommendations include:
· avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth;
· cover coughs and sneezes; cough into elbow;
· clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces;
· stay home when they are sick; and
· wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
The Arkansas Department of Education's Division of Elementary and Secondary Education is working in conjunction with the Arkansas Department of Health to monitor and provide guidance as needed. Magazine Public Schools is following daily updates provided by ADH and CDC and will provide more information when available.
Families may visit the following websites for more information regarding the COVID-19 coronavirus.