Forsyth County Schools Outline Ebola Response

Although no Ebola cases or hints of any Ebola cases have appeared in Forsyth County yet, that isn’t stopping local school officials from being proactive and outlining a response plan to make sure the county is ready to prevent or combat the disease in schools.

According to information posted by the school system on its website, ”Forsyth County Schools is working closely with local and state health agencies to stay informed and prepared to maintain the safety of our children.” The release goes on to say that the post is not a warning, but a demonstration of the school district’s proactive work to keep children safe.

Forsyth County Schools have enacted the following measures:

• Our Health Services Facilitator has met with the Forsyth County Health Department to discuss preparation and planning for our district.
• The Student Support Services Department and our Health Services Facilitator are continuously monitoring, tracking, and keeping abreast of updates and recommendations from local and state health authorities as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
• Our Health Services Facilitator is in continuous contact with all school nurses to provide updates, and review current guidelines and recommendations issued by the Georgia Department of Public Health and the CDC.
• Forsyth County Schools has developed new processes and guidelines, and updated protocols for new student enrollment, to address Ebola for use by the school district and school health team which are consistent with Georgia Public Health recommendations and CDC guidelines for schools, colleges, and universities.
• Information has been shared with principals regarding the district preparation and planning.
• We have purchased additional safety equipment and supplies for school clinics.
• Forsyth County Schools will remain engaged with our local health authorities, and our Health Services Facilitator will continue to work closely with the Forsyth County Health Department on any potential or actual Ebola concerns and to ensure proper protocols and procedures are being followed.
• Our Communicable Diseases Committee has organized communication resources to share with parents and school communities. Forsyth County Schools will continue to monitor the Ebola situation and provide the district with updates as the health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.

Additional information on Ebola and public health guidelines for schools can be found at Forsyth County Schools’ website.