Important information from EPISD regarding coronavirus
Click here for an updated memo on the coronavirus (March 3, 2020)
(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT -- Feb. 28, 2020) — EPISD continues to work with local, state and federal health officials in monitoring and responding to the recent health issues surrounding the coronavirus.
The health of students and employees is a top priority for the District and our health officials are in communication with the City of El Paso Department of Public Health, the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While health officials believe the risk to schools in our area is low, EPISD wants to reassure the El Paso community that the matter is being monitored closely.
The District is currently following the recommendations from health officials to protect against coronavirus in the same way the District protects against the spread of respiratory illnesses like the flu. This includes extensive treatment using systems like GermBlast and EMIST — two services that spray solutions aimed at disinfecting campuses and offices.
Parents are urged to talk to their children about coronavirus and what they can do to prevent infection. The information below is from the city’s public health department:
How do people become infected with coronavirus?
Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
- Respiratory droplets released into the air by coughing and sneezing;
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands;
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands; and
- Rarely, fecal contamination.
Patients with confirmed coronavirus infections have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of coughing, shortness of breath and fever.
How can I avoid coronavirus infection?
The best way to prevent infection is to take precautions to avoid exposure to the virus, which are similar to the precautions to avoid exposure to the flu. CDC recommends these every-day actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eye, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
For updated information on the coronavirus, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or call the City of El Paso Public Health Department at 212-0200.
Video by Angel Dominguez