Skip to content

Vernon school district responds to coronavirus fears

Misinformation circulating on social media prompts reminder
20427979_web1_Coronavirus-ADW-200204-hands-W

A major health concern centred primarily in China is being taken seriously at local schools.

In regards to the novel coronavirus, the Vernon School District is in regular communication with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and the local health authority to make public health decisions, and to ensure students and employees are kept informed and safe.

“The Ministry of Education understands that school district staff, students and communities may have questions about coronavirus,” said Superintendent Joe Rogers in a notice to families. “The Ministry will continue to be in close contact with public health officials and, with that in mind, would ask you to ensure that no assumptions are made about the risk of students or staff based on their ethnicity or travel history.”

The notice comes since misinformation regarding coronavirus is starting to circulate on social media.

READ MORE: B.C. mom says parents pressured her to keep child at home due to coronavirus fears

“We encourage students, staff and their families to refer to official sources,” said Rogers.

In B.C., the latest official updates are located on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

As well, a new toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) has been established to answer questions from Canadians about the novel coronavirus. Service is available from 7 a.m. to midnight EST.

Reducing the Risk The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, individuals employ the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu:

• Wash one’s hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and hot water (it is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection).

• Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch one’s face/eyes/mouth with one’s hands and cover one’s mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of the 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 sick.

READ MORE: Plane bringing Canadians home from Wuhan making Vancouver pit stop


@VernonNews
jennifer@vernonmorningstar.com

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.



Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
Read more