Union County Schools establish COVID-19 protocols

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County Schools (UCS) released a memorandum on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 detailing protocols for COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus.

Effective immediately, the two-page document details a 14-day quarantine and self-monitoring policy for students, employees, volunteers, and substitutes. It follows guidelines provided by the CDC, Union General Hospital, and the Union County Health Department. However, the protocols are subject to change as more knowledge about the virus becomes available.

The 14-day quarantine asks anyone who visited a level one or above country, came in contact with someone (a family member who recently traveled) who potentially has Coronavirus, or had close contact with someone with a confirmed case of the virus to stay home for 14 days. This begins on the first full day back in the United States.

CDC has an updated list of level two and three countries, which are Japan, Iran, South Korea, China, and Italy.

In order to return to school, the individual must fever free for 14 days. Anyone who believes they might have contracted COVID-19 should self-monitor for symptoms. “The Department of Public Health must be notified immediately at 1-866-PUB-HLTH, and the student/staff member should seek medical assistance,” explained the memorandum.

Those who have traveled to an area with widespread outbreaks are responsible for their transportation to and from wellness centers to receive daily health checks. This needs to happen “the first thing each morning during school throughout the monitoring period.”

During quarantine and self-monitoring students will receive assignments through digital learning, and absences will be excused.

Those who are self-monitoring should “be mindful of their respiratory function and overall general health.”

In a statement released by UCS Superintendent John Hill stated:

“The Union County School District understands the concerns attributed to the COVID-19, and we are working with the Georgia Department of Public Health and Union General Health System to develop plans and procedures that best meet the needs of our students, staff, and community.

At this time, we are monitoring the situation and will continue to work with our public health officials to maintain current best practices and understanding of the virus. The newness (novelty) of this virus creates additional concern for all.”

To help keep families safe against COVID-19, UCS suggests:

• “Keep children who are sick at home. Don’t send them to school.
• Teach your children to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to set a good example by doing this yourself.
• Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of the elbow.
• Teach your children to stay at least three feet away from people who are sick or avoid them altogether.
• People who are sick should stay home from work or school and avoid other people until they are better.”

For those interested in making handwashing more fun for themselves or their children, try timing the 20 seconds to your favorite song, like the opening of Black Parade by My Chemical Romance or like the graphic All Star by Smashmouth.