School is back after a couple weeks off for spring break, and already Island Health is warning the public about potential COVID-19 exposures.
“We are now seeing the number of children with coronavirus on the rise,” said Island Health in the statement.
“All signs indicate that there will be significant numbers of exposures at schools in the weeks to come.”
The letter reminds parents about the risks of COVID-19, as well as the precautions them and their families must take to reduce the risk of infection.
“If your child has even mild symptoms, do not attend school, make an appointment to get your child and any other symptomatic family members tested, especially if you have travelled during spring break,” Island Health said in the letter.
While masks aren’t mandatory for all students at this time, Island Health said that if they are able to wear a mask, it should be considered.
Just prior to spring break, on March 15th, Island Health reported three COVID-19 exposure alerts in schools.
On Friday, a record 55 cases of COVID-19 were reported on Vancouver Island. Across BC, 908 new cases were added.
There are reports by parents on social media that Campbell River school (District 72) is taking another week off school as of this morning as cases on the island continue to rise..
Additionally, Superintendent and CEO of Saanich School District, Dave Eberwein, issued a statement to Parents and Guardians this morning.
“I was contacted late last night by the Vancouver Island COVID-19 Rapid Response Team about a letter they had crafted with Island Health for distribution to all parents and guardians on the island,” the email read.
“The purpose of the attached letter is to remind parents and guardians of the importance of remaining vigilant in reducing possible exposures to COVID-19 and as well as doing daily health checks of your children before sending them to school.”
It is unclear whether there have been any outbreaks at schools or what prompted Island Health’s letter.
Today’s live update on COVID-19 cases in the province over the past three days was scheduled for 3 p.m., however, that has now been changed to 1 p.m., and Premier John Horgan will join the conference.
Victoria Buzz has reached out to Island Health for comment.
