January 31, 2020 - Update on Coronavirus

Hello Ann Arbor Public Schools community,

In the Ann Arbor Public Schools, student and staff health and safety remains the top priority, and all matters of health and safety are taken very seriously. With this focus in mind, we are aware that some families are becoming concerned about the novel coronavirus. At this time, the immediate health risk to the general U.S. public is considered low, but we wanted to share the following information from the Washtenaw County Health Department. As is our practice, we will continue to update the AAPS community when we have more information.

Sincerely,

Swift signature

Jeanice K. Swift
Superintendent of Schools
Ann Arbor Public Schools

 

Washtenaw County Health Dept. logo While there have been no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) reported in Michigan as of January 30, 2020, the Ann Arbor Public Schools is working with Washtenaw County Health Department and closely following updates to the guidance issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC is currently reporting six confirmed cases, nationwide. Therefore, the immediate health risk to the general U.S. public is considered low at this time. Additionally, there are no recommendations by federal, state or local public health officials to cancel events or restrict travel within the United States. The CDC is, however, recommending avoiding nonessential travel to China. Traveler updates are available at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/novel-coronavirus-wuhan-china.

To prevent the spread of viruses such as the flu, common cold and coronavirus:

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing
Avoid contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, stay home; avoid contact with others

Fact Sheet from Washtenaw County Health Department

This situation may change quickly. Refer to these sites for current information:


Washtenaw updates: www.washtenaw.org/health

Michigan updates: www.michigan.gov/coronavirus

National updates: www.cdc.gov/nCoV