Critical Update Scarborough Schools
February 22, 2021
COVID-19 Notification Letter
Dear Scarborough Public Schools Families and Staff,
This letter is to update you about COVID-19 cases that we have become aware of since returning from break. Today we were informed about 5 positive cases of COVID-19 from Scarborough High School, 4 of which have been confirmed positive and one that is presumptive positive. Additionally, over break there was one positive case with district level staff, one positive case at Wentworth School, and one positive case at Scarborough High School. Our nursing staff have communicated closely with the Maine CDC to ensure all protocols are being followed. Notifications have been made to all close contacts identified from school exposure. We are informing the greater school community now in an effort of complete transparency.
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include:
• fever or chills • cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • fatigue
• muscle or body aches • headache
• new loss of taste or smell • sore throat
• congestion or runny nose • nausea or vomiting or diarrhea
Please keep in mind that many things can cause respiratory illness, so students and staff should be up-to-date on influenza and routine vaccinations.
Maine CDC recommends prevention measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into 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.
Thanks to the strong protocols in place, we received timely communication and have been able to take swift action.. Questions can be directed to any of our school nurses at each of our schools. For general COVID-19 questions, dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695). You can also text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email info@211maine.org. Call a health care provider for questions about your symptoms. More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.
Respectfully,
Diane Nadeau
Assistant Superintendent