March 9 health updates

The City School District of Albany continues to emphasize frequent hand-washing and other preventative measures to help minimize the spread of germs and illness as the state has confirmed the first cases of COVID-19 in the Capital Region.

The state confirmed two cases of COVID-19 in Saratoga County over the weekend. State officials continue to emphasize that the general risk to the public is low and that while we all need to be cautious, it is also important to stay calm and follow guidelines for good hygiene.

On Monday, district staff began installing hand-sanitizer dispensers in schools and will continue to do so throughout all buildings as supplies that have been ordered arrive. 

Teachers are emphasizing the following guidelines in class, and the district also is distributing posters to all buildings as additional reminders for all students, staff and visitors. 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – that’s the same as singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice in a row! It’s especially important to wash before eating. You can use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available. 
• When you cough or sneeze, remember to cover your mouth with a tissue, or the inside of your elbow or arm – instead of your hand. When you use a tissue, remember to throw it in the trash after you use it. 
• Don’t share things like drinks, food, eating utensils like forks and spoons, and toothbrushes. 
• Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. That’s how germs spread. 
• If you are starting to feel sick, let a teacher or another adult at school know. If you’re at home, make sure you tell your parent or another adult. 
  • Let us know if you are feeling any of these symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, nausea or vomiting, or tiredness. 

We also ask all families to continue to be aware of these additional guidelines at home to help reduce the spread of illness and help your family stay healthy.

• If you or a family member show any of the above symptoms, particularly symptoms of a respiratory illness, talk with your health-care provider. 
• Keep sick children home while they have these symptoms, and for 24 hours after the fever goes away without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
• If your child has chronic health problems and displays flu-like symptoms, contact your health-care provider immediately.

You can visit the COVID-19 Information page in our Health Services section for additional information and resources.

The district will continue to monitor guidance and updates regarding COVID-19 and will provide updates as necessary. We appreciate your cooperation as we work together to respond to these health concerns.