Letter to School Communities COVID-19 9.7.21

September 7, 2021

Dear Students, Families, and Staff,

This letter is to provide updated case information as we continue to navigate this year with transparency. We have had three individuals associated with Noble High School and Mary Hurd Academy who have tested positive for COVID-19. Close contacts have been notified.

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that ranges from mild to severe. It can be more severe in adults 60 years and older and in those with underlying conditions. The virus mainly spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes and an uninfected person breathes in the virus. Signs and symptoms include:

• fever or chills • new loss of taste or smell • cough • sore throat • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • congestion or runny nose • fatigue • nausea or vomiting • muscle or body aches • diarrhea • headache

Please keep in mind that many things can cause respiratory illness, so students and staff should be up-to-date on influenza and routine vaccinations.

Maine CDC recommends preventive measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures include proper handwashing with soap and warm water, which is especially important after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

A reminder to use the daily health screening tool. Please do not send your student to school if you are waiting for test results.

Any changes to the current situation will be relayed to our families as quickly as possible. Please understand that our goal is to keep all of our students and staff safe.

Sincerely,

Audra Beauvais

Superintendent of Schools