The following update has been provided by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education:
On January 28, BC Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry announced that the first case of novel coronavirus has been confirmed in BC. Further details are available HERE.
The Ministry of Education will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Health, local health authorities and other levels of government to ensure students and school district employees are kept informed and safe. There is ongoing monitoring throughout BC, nationally and internationally, and all necessary precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of infection.
The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu should be employed:
- Wash your hands frequently (it is the single most effective way of reducing infection spread).
- Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with your hands, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow).
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
- Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Contact 8-1-1 (HealthLink BC) or your health care provider for questions about your personal health situation.
Further information about novel coronavirus is available on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.
Please note: When it comes to decisions concerning public health, school districts take their direction from the Ministry of Health and local health authorities. The Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows School District is in regular communication with the Ministry of Education and public health; we will continue to provide any updates as they become available.
For additional announcements, visit https://www.sd42.ca/information-community-coronavirus/