E. Islip School District Closely Monitoring Coronavirus Situation

EAST ISLIP, NY — Despite the fact that there have not been any confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the East Islip area, school district officials announced last week they are taking steps to address the concerns of the community.

In a letter, Superintendent of Schools John Dolan stated that the district is "closely monitoring this fluid situation and following guidance" from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Suffolk County Department of Health and the New York State Education Department.

On Thursday, the first case of the new coronavirus was confirmed on Long Island as the number of cases in New York climbed to 22. The virus has also spread to the Hudson Valley and New York City.On Long Island, a 42-year-old man from Nassau County was hospitalized, officials said.

"If a student or staff member shows respiratory symptoms, we will follow our current practices for handling respiratory illnesses, subject to any additional guidance forthcoming," Dolan wrote. "The district has infectious disease protocols in place and has been taking steps, such as cleaning and disinfecting throughout its schools, to minimize the spread of viruses and a variety of other illnesses."

In Lindenhurst, Superintendent Daniel Giordano announced last Monday that several high school students who returned from a recent trip to Italy fell ill. However after consulting with the Suffolk County Health Department, health officials believe the gastric symptoms the students experienced are a result of norovirus, flu or possibly even salmonella and are in "no way reflective" of the respiratory symptoms or symptoms of pneumonia, which accompany COVID-19.

"Please know that, as always, the health and safety of our students and staff is our highest priority, and we will remain vigilant in our efforts to help prevent the spread of this illness," Jones stated.

The letter also included are a number of steps that students, staff and community members can take to minimize the spread of all respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, according to the state Department of Health such as:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Heavily soiled hands should be washed.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If you or a family member begin showing symptoms of a respiratory disease and suspect it may be COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider. Before going to your healthcare provider's office, inform them that a case of COVID-19 is suspected, and follow their advice.

In addition, New York has established a Novel Coronavirus Hotline, which can provide additional information. Residents can call 1-888-364-3065 with questions or concerns about travel and symptoms.