March 5th, 2020
Dear Families and Caregivers,
As you may know, today there was confirmation of the region’s first case of COVID-19, also known as novel coronavirus in Waterloo region.
We know that many families continue to feel some anxiety about this illness. It is important to note that Waterloo Region Public Health and Emergency Services indicates that the confirmed case does not represent an increased risk to residents of Waterloo Region.
We understand that the emergence of COVID 19 is concerning and we want to reassure you that, as always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority. We are in close and regular contact with public health experts from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and Region of Waterloo Public Health & Emergency Services to ensure we have all the most up-to-date and factual information available.
At present, we are encouraging families to continue reinforcing the important preventive measures during cold and influenza season, including:
- Staying home if you are ill
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, elbow or sleeve
- Visit your doctor or pharmacy for your annual flu shot, if you haven’t already done so
Public health is providing up-to-date information and we encourage all parents to review the public health website for a full list of updates at regionofwaterloo.ca/2019NovelCoronavirus
Please continue to visit our website or www.ontario.ca/coronavirus regularly for up-to-date information.
Sincerely,
John Bryant
Director of Education