Spooner Area School District Info On COVID-19

News Release

Dear Spooner Rails Community:

The coronavirus (COVID-19) has been in the news recently. We understand that the spread of the virus may cause concerns for some students, families and staff members, as well as the community. It is important to note that we are unaware of any confirmed cases of coronavirus in the Spooner Area School District. This message is to keep you informed as we continue our work of providing a safe, respectful and positive school environment districtwide.

COVID-19 is a relatively new virus. Guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicates that spending time in the same indoor environment as persons known to have COVID-19 is considered to represent a low risk of exposure to the virus. While the risk to others is considered low, the SASD remains in close contact with Washburn County health officials. The SASD will continue to closely monitor the health and attendance of our students and staff.

The SASD has steps in place to address communicable disease as part the district’s Crisis Response Plan. In the event that confirmed cases of COVID-19 are identified closer to the Spooner community, the district is prepared to carry the plan out working in conjunction with county health officials and medical advisors.

While the immediate risk of this new virus is believed to be low at this time, everyone can do their part to help respond to this public health concern. The CDC provides these recommendations:

• It is currently influenza and respiratory disease season. The CDC recommends getting a flu vaccine, taking everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs and taking flu antivirals if prescribed.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and throw the tissue away immediately after use. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your inside elbow area.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you are not near water.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick.
• If you experience flu-like symptoms, stay home from school, work and social gatherings to prevent others from getting ill. If you have a fever of 100 degrees or above, you should stay home. Your fever should be gone for a full 24 hours, without fever-reducing medication, before returning to work.

You can get additional information about coronavirus, steps to stay healthy and the district’s plan to address communicable disease at the links below:

• Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC)
• DrydenWire – Interview with Washburn County Health Officer Cheri Nickell
• SASD – Communicable Disease – Crisis Response Plan
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services

The SASD will keep you informed of any changes to this information.

-- Dr. David Aslyn Superintendent