Nassau Student Tests Positive For Coronavirus; School Still Open

SEAFORD, NY — A Seaford middle-schooler has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, and district officials said that section of the school was closed for cleaning.

According to the state's COVID-19 school report card, one of Seaford Middle School's 570 combined students, teachers and staff members tested positive last week. In a letter to parents, students and staff, the Seaford School District said it was notified Friday that a student at Seaford Middle School contracted the virus. The student was quarantining per state Department of Health guidelines and cannot return to school until the district receives a letter from the health department clearing the student to return.

"Out of an abundance of caution and following guidance issued by the New York State
Education Department at the Nassau County Department of Health, we have closed off all areas of the building that the individual used and are thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting those spaces," superintendent Adele Pecora said in the letter. "Based on the guidance from the NCDOH, we will follow all necessary protocols to mitigate any potential exposure to other students or staff."

The district decided after consulting with the county health department that all schools would still open Monday. Due to the circumstances of the case and implementation of masks, barriers and social distancing in classrooms, the district was not advised to quarantine, Pecora said.

COVID-19 symptoms are similar to seasonal flu and include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Some have reported other symptoms, such as a runny nose, sore throat, nausea, lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of senses of taste and smell. Any child exhibiting such symptoms should be kept at home.

"We are closely monitoring this situation and will provide you with updates as we learn more," Pecora said. "As always, the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff is our priority. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or your child’s building principal."