Wentworth School Critical Update
April 15, 2021
Dear Wentworth School Families and Staff,
This letter is to inform you that two individuals from Wentworth School have been confirmed positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). One individual was last at school on Wednesday, April 7 and the other individual was last in school on Friday, April 9. Due to this timing, there are no school related close contacts. Our nursing staff have communicated closely with the Maine CDC to ensure all protocols are being followed. 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.
We cannot reiterate enough the need for everyone to continue to follow the CDC requirements, whether at school or in the larger community. We would also strongly advise everyone to pay attention to potential COVID symptoms listed in this communication, and please make sure you make contact with the school immediately if your child tests positive.
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. Questions can be directed to our nurses at 730-4737 or 730-4610. 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.
Here is a link to the Superintendent's communication detailing the expectations for returning to school after travel outside of New England.
My very best wishes to all of you for a safe, healthy and rejuvenating April break!
Sincerely,
Wentworth School Principal