Parsippany School Employee Exposed To Coronavirus

PARSIPPANY, NJ - On Tuesday, the day NJ recorded the first novel coronavirus death and local colleges began shifting their classes online, Parsippany-Troy Hills School District Superintendent Barbara Sargent informed parents a school employee has been exposed to the virus.

In a message sent Tuesday evening, the Administration learned that a relative of an
employee at Troy Hills Elementary School had come into contact with individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, also known as coronavirus.

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"The entire family has self-isolated and information regarding the employee or their family, will not be released," Sargent said. "Presently, neither the relative nor the employee have reported any symptoms and we ask that our school community respect these individuals' privacy during this time."

Sargent noted that Troy-Hills school is being cleaned thoroughly and in accordance with the guidelines from the CDC and state and local agencies.

"We have consulted with the local Department of Health and have been advised that this situation represents a low risk to the remainder of our school community and, therefore, it is not necessary for us to close schools at this time," she said.

Sargent said she knew there may be families who with to keep their students home until the situation is "clarified."

"We ask that parents exercise their best judgment in considering the risk and benefits that come with the potential disruption to a student's education," she said, noting that regular attendance protocols should be followed.

"Understandably families will have questions. For any health-related questions, please call the State's hotline at 800-222-1222," Sargent said.

Sargent also said that the Department of Health is not recommending families, students or staff quarantine or seek medical help unless they experience symptoms.

"Of course, if a student or family docs experience symptoms, we ask that you contact the school as soon as possible so that we may ensure that remedial measures are taken to both disinfect our district schools and mitigate any educational impact to your child," Sargent said.

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