Note to Families from SCSD Medical Director Triana (3/4/20)

March 4, 2020

Dear Parent/Guardian:

As the number of people who have been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in New York continues to rise I wanted to share some information with you. The risk to our students and families of contracting COVID-19 is still low although we do anticipate that the number of people diagnosed with the virus will continue to rise. Currently, there are no reports of anyone with the virus in Onondaga County.

The Onondaga County Health Department is vigilantly preparing for all possible scenarios should individuals become infected locally. In the Syracuse City School District we will continue to follow the recommendations from the Onondaga County Health Department, New York State Department of Health and Center for Disease Control while monitoring any possible impact involving our school community.

We have instituted additional cleaning protocols at all of our schools and offices.  First Student drivers will have disinfectant wipes to wipe down the seats and hand sanitizer for students to use on their busses.  Additionally, we are continuing to promote effective handwashing in our schools while encouraging those who are ill to stay at home.    These practices are recommended to reduce the spread of illness.  

All SCSD students, families and staff should continue to practice general flu prevention measures to minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses including COVID-19.  These include:  

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve
• Wash your hands regularly
• Avoid touching your face
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Disinfect used surfaces frequently (doorknobs, phones, etc)
• Get your flu shot – it’s never too late
• Stay home if you are feeling sick. Call your doctor and let them know your symptoms and travel history.

If your child should become sick at school or arrive at school with flu like symptoms, they will be provided with a mask and you will be required to pick up your child from school as a precaution. Please consult with your child’s healthcare provider as needed for their illness.
 
Additional Resources:
 

• CDC’s dedicated 2019-nCoV website at https://www.cdc.gov/nCoV.
• NYSDOH’s dedicated 2019-nCoV website at https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/
• Onondaga County Health Department: http://www.ongov.net/health/coronavirus.html
• NYSDOH directory of local health departments https://www.health.ny.gov/contact/contact_information/
• New York State Center for School Health website at www.schoolhealthny.com

We will continue to communicate clearly with our SCSD community about our ongoing efforts regarding the coronavirus.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ted. J. Triana, D.O.
SCSD Medical Director