Best Practices for Controlling Infection Spread in Schools

We are sharing this information to help schools plan, prepare, and respond in the case of an infectious disease outbreak.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) virus, and we are learning more about it every day. There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. At this point, the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes it. Stopping transmission (spread) of the virus through everyday practices is the best way to keep people healthy. More information on COVID-19 is available here.

The CDC reports that schools should take the following steps to prepare their facilities to act in case of a reported COVID-19 case in their community.

• Review, update, and implement emergency operating plans (EOPs).
• Develop with information-sharing partners, such as primary care clinics, local health departments, and hospital systems.
• Monitor and plan for absenteeism of students and staff.
• Establish procedures for students and staff who are sick at school.
• Perform routine environmental cleaning.
• Create communications plans for use with your school community.

For more in-depth information, read the Centers for Disease Control’s full guidance here.

Hand-washing remains the best preventive hygiene practice. If using hand sanitizer, please choose 60% or higher alcohol content.

Success Stories

Scores of schools and school districts across our region are taking positive steps to help their students thrive in healthier environments. From testing for radon to cleaning green, discover how teachers, staff, and parents are working together to bring about positive change.