January 2, 2023 - Health & Safety Message

January 2, 2023

 

Dear School Community, 

 

For the week ending December 29, 2022, Middlesex County COVID-19 level remained high and the Influenza (flu) level remained  high.  In accordance with the New Jersey Department of Health, it’s strongly encouraged that you  protect yourself and your family members by following these recommendations:

 

  •  If you are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, wear a high-quality mask or respirator (e.g., N95) when indoors in public.

  • If you are at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, avoid non-essential indoor

activities in public where you could be exposed.

  • If you spend time with someone at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, consider self-testing before you see them and wearing a high-quality mask when indoors with them.

  • Get tested, if exposed to someone with COVID-19,  if you develop COVID-19

symptoms, and before/after travel.

  • Stay up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccines and boosters; Wash your hands frequently.

 

Since many will be gathering with family and friends during the winter break, students and employees are

strongly encouraged to do the following before returning to school/work:

 

  • Self test for COVID-19 on the evening of January 2, 2023 and January 8, 2023. Please use the home test kits provided by the district.

  • If you test positive for COVID-19, submit a NBPS COVID-19 Reporting Form; Stay home if you’re sick.

  • Wear a well fitting  mask for 10 days if you’re exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 and self test on day 6 after last exposure or sooner if you develop symptoms.

  • Although masks are optional, it is strongly recommended that everyone wears a well fitting mask January 3, 2023 - January 12, 2023. 

Steps everyone should  take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold will also help prevent coronavirus (COVID-19):

  • Wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.

  • Practice social distancing when possible.

  • Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others.

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

  • Get flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

Wear a mask and get tested if you develop symptoms of flu or COVID-19. Two negative COVID-19 tests taken within 48 hours of each other are needed before COVID-19 can be ruled out.

 

Thank you,

                        

Dr. Aubrey A. Johnson

Superintendent of Schools