Rockville Centre Schools: No Changes Because Of Coronavirus

Rockville Centre Superintendent Dr. William Johnson has told parents that, at this point, there's no reason to fear the novel coronavirus in the district's schools.

The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, is making news around the world. And while everyone should take steps to avoid needlessly exposing themselves to potential illnesses, Johnson said the district is not changing anything yet.

"School Districts will be informed by the health department of any child who might be involved with a voluntary isolation, as well as any occurrence of the Coronavirus," Johnson wrote in a letter to families. "The [County Commissioner of Health] indicated that at this time, there is no reason for us to change any of our home or school activities. He also indicated that like the flu and the common cold, the Coronavirus is a respiratory infection and we should continue to implement practices to promote a healthy environment and prevent the spread of viral infections."

Johnson said that the district would be instructing the custodial staff to daily sanitize surfaces that are regularly touched by students and staff.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said current symptoms reported for people with COVID-19 include mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and difficulty breathing. The virus spreads from person to person, and someone who is sick with the virus can spread it to others, medical officials said.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent the new coronavirus. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The CDC recommends preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, such as:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay home if sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and then throw the tissue away
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using regular household cleaning spray or wipes.

For more information, click here.

Dan Hampton contributed reporting to this story.