Here's How Bethel Schools are Prepping For Coronavirus

BETHEL, CT — As the United States braces for a possible outbreak of the new coronavirus, schools across the country have been reviewing and revising protocols in attempts to limit its spread in their communities.

Although the risk is still low in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said now is the time for businesses, schools, hospitals and other institutions to begin preparing for a possible outbreak, including disruption to daily life.

In Bethel schools, the emphasis is on prevention and education, according to Superintendent Christine Carver. Young children in particular need to be taught and reminded about best practices for how to sneeze and cough without risking infecting others.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending people clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. The agency also advises people to wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing.

"The state has also asked us to do a pandemic plan, and so there are very specific protocols that are associated with that," Carver told Patch. "It not only looks at preventative (measures), but if you did miss school, how would you keep the operation going? They call it 'continuity of services.'"

Fortunately no Bethel schools had overseas trips planned, but a scheduled visit from a group of Japanese students was cancelled early on. Carver said she made the decision before the virus was even very widespread in Japan "out of an abundance of caution."

COVID-19 is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that's a close cousin to the SARS and MERS viruses that have caused outbreaks in the past.

As of Monday morning, Governor Ned Lamont said there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Connecticut. Just north in Massachusetts, one person has been confirmed to have the virus. The UMass-Boston student is recovering, officials said last week.

Regional health officials have said the risk of a serious outbreak is low.

This story includes reporting by Patch editors Mike Carraggi and Ellyn Santiago.