Dear Westfield Public School Families,
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has updated their covid-19 guidelines to follow the newest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The Westfield Public Schools continue to work closely with the local Department of Public Health and will adopt the guidelines recommended by the MDPH effective immediately. For the full copy of guidelines, please visit Staying home to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses | Mass.gov.
To summarize the changes, the isolation guidance after a positive test for covid-19 has been significantly adjusted. Staff and students may resume normal activities with precautions if the following are true: They have been fever free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications AND symptoms are improving.
For at least the first 5 days after resuming normal activities, the guidance recommends these extra precautions:
● Avoid crowded indoor spaces. Wear a mask anytime you are indoors around other people.
● Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
● Avoid spending time with people who are at increased risk for severe disease.
If you have any questions, please contact your school building nurse or the Health and Safety Supervisor fawne.stpierre@schoolsofwestfield.org.