Extra Cleaning At Bernards Twp. Schools Over Coronavirus Concerns

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township school officials are continuing with extra cleaning regiments at the schools in the district to try to alleviate concerns about the novel coronavirus recently dubbed COVID-19.

Superintendent Nick Markarian sent out a letter to parents on Friday addressing the district's preparations regarding the potentially deadly virus.

"Our district has been continuing to monitor the situation with the the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and is leaning on the Somerset County Department of Health (SCDOH) for guidance," Markarian said.

There was one suspected coronavirus case in New Jersey this weekend that turned out to be negative, the state Department of Health reported late Saturday. There are no other people in New Jersey who are currently diagnosed with the disease or awaiting testing for the virus that causes COVID-19. (See Related: Update On Probe Into Suspected Coronavirus Case In NJ)

In an effort to "remain vigilant" Markarian said the district's custodial staff is continuing with extra cleaning regiments and school officials are working with the local health department, school nurses, and district physician "to make the best decisions for the health of our students."

"As the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve, we will remain in close communication with local and state officials to take any measures deemed necessary to protect the safety and well-being of our students," Markarian said. "Locally we are working on plans for how we can support students and maintain instruction should the virus spread to the point of high school student absence or possible school closure."

Markarian encouraged parents who are returning from international travel to contact the school nurse before sending their student back to school.

Markarian also asked the community to follow the CDC's recommendations to help prevent spreading:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
• Wash your hand often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

Officials say there have been more than 85,000 cases and nearly 3,000 deaths worldwide. More than 60 cases of the coronavirus have been diagnosed in the United States.

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