HEALTH UPDATE
March 3, 2020
Dear SWSD Families,
Today I participated in a conference call hosted by Governor Philip D. Murphy and Commissioner Judith Persichilli, Chair of the Governor's Coronavirus Taskforce. The purpose of the call was to provide an update on New Jersey's efforts in response to the outbreak.
The Individuals who spoke today were: Governor Murphy, Judith Persichilli (NJ Health Commissioner), Dr. Tina Tan (NJ State Epidemiologist), and Dr. Lamont Repolett – NJ Department of Education Commissioner.
The following information was shared:
Since Feb. 4th, New Jersey has established a Coronavirus Task Force.
Right now, COVID-19 is considered a "LOW" health risk to society, but New Jersey is preparing in the event that a state response is needed. COVID-19 is most dangerous to older adults with underlying health conditions. COVID-19 can be spread person to person (within 6 feet) through droplets such as: coughing and sneezing.
The best course of action to prevent the spread of disease:
- Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing.
- Use alcohol‐based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Stay home from class and work if you are sick.
- Contact your healthcare provider for advice if you are not feeling well.
- Avoid people who are sick.
- Get a flu shot. It’s not too late to be protected.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
- Adhere to exclusion recommendations from public health: fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing medication.
Please keep in mind that we are still in the middle of flu season.
The CDC is NOT recommending that individuals stock up on face masks. They recommend that you only use a face mask if a healthcare professional recommends it. It is also important to ensure that you are getting your information from reliable sources (ie. CDC website).
At this time, there is no need to cancel or restrict school and/or social events.The District does have BOE approved policies for the control of communicable diseases. In the event that the District needs to take additional precautions, we will work with the New Jersey Department of Health and communicate our needs/changes with you.
NJDOH Hotline for Questions/Concerns: 1-800-222-1222 and website. The NJDOH Novel
Coronavirus Call Center is open and is taking calls from the general public. It is open 24/7 and can accommodate callers in multiple languages.
Dr. Kristin P. O'Neil
Superintendent
Swedesboro-Woolwich School District
15 Fredrick Boulevard
Woolwich, NJ 08085
(856) 241-1552
The Swedesboro-Woolwich School District:
“A community dedicated to inspiring life-long learners.”