Coronavirus information for schools

Any school with students in China, that engage in student exchange, will be accepting new students, or hosting prospective students from China should consider taking precautions to protect your students and staff from the Coronavirus. The U.S. State Department has been issuing various warnings. The latest warning (as of February 5) shows the warning level now at “Warning Level 4 — Do Not Travel.”

The CDC has issued a travel notice that provides up-to-date information on the spread of the Coronavirus and what travelers can do to protect themselves and others.

Lastly, should there still be students or staff in the primary affected areas, the U.S. State Department is coordinating evacuations and providing information on how to proceed.

What can you do to protect yourself:

■ You should avoid close contact with anyone that is showing symptoms of a respiratory illness. According to the World Health Organization, visible signs of a respiratory illness include coughing and sneezing. Other symptoms may include fever and shortness of breath. Extreme cases may lead to pneumonia, kidney failure and possible death.

■ The general public should continue to do what is done every cold and flu season. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and if you are feeling sick, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and disinfect objects and surfaces that you touch.

■ If you are planning to travel to China, it is recommended that you visit your health care provider to make sure you have all of the necessary vaccinations and travel medications. You should also continue to monitor all warnings and alerts that are issued by the U.S. State Department. Additionally, American citizens should register with the U.S. Embassy or