Coronavirus Facts and Information

Governor Inslee has ordered the mandatory closure of all K-12 schools (public and private) in order to limit the possible transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) among large groups. ESD 112 is committed to retaining continuity and supporting our school districts during this uncertain time. We are currently evaluating opportunities and developing plans to support our districts through child care and other educational support services. We will use our social media and website to share the most up-to-date information on this evolving situation.

Resources, Tips and Templates for Southwest Washington Schools

The health and safety of children, adults and our entire community are important to all of us. It can be scary to face an emerging issue like the spread of a disease, but understanding facts about the coronavirus (COVID-19) can help to provide clarity and perspective amid uncertainty.

Facts about Coronavirus (COVID-19)

• Most people with confirmed cases of COVID-19 are adults. There is no evidence that children are more susceptible.
• Official sources of information are the best way to stay grounded in fact. The Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control are great resources.
• Good hygiene (proper handwashing) is your best protection against COVID-19.

Public Health recommendations

Clark County Public Health issued recommendations for populations at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 on March 11.

Public Health is recommending – but not requiring – that people at higher risk stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible. This includes large public gatherings where there will be close contact with others, such as conventions, sporting events and concerts.

People at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 include people:

• older than 60.
• who have serious chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease.
• who have weakened immune systems.

Anyone who has questions about whether their condition puts them at risk for COVID-19 should consult their health care provider.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.

Symptoms:

Patients with COVID-19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for COVID-19 and the best prevention is to avoid being exposed to the virus in the first place.

Prevention:

There are simple, preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should:

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Stigma Reduction:

As new information emerges from across the globe, please remember that the risk of COVID-19 is not at all connected with race, ethnicity or nationality. Seeking and sharing accurate information during a time of heightened concern is one of the best things we can do to keep rumors and misinformation from spreading. Read more >