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IH reports potential COVID-19 case at KIS
Interior Health reports a “potential” exposure to COVID-19 at the Kimberley Independent School (KIS) on Nov. 10.
Interior Health’s website notes a “school exposure notification” does not mean all students at the school have been exposed to COVID-19.
Kimberley Independent School Principal Kari Johnston reported health officials identified which staff and/or students were involved in the possible exposure, and those people are self-isolating at home.
Those associated with the school that have not been contacted by health officials are deemed low risk and continue monitor themselves for any symptoms, but can continue to go to school.
“Exposure” is a term used when a single person known to have coronavirus attended school while they were infectious. There is no information on whether the positive case is a student, staff or other to protect the privacy of any individuals involved,” Johnston said.
“Kimberley Independent School has been working closely with the Interior Health Authority and the Ministry of Education to ensure the appropriate response path has been followed. Administration is taking all precautions to ensure that Kimberley independent School continues to be a safe place for staff and students as the safety of our students and staff are our utmost priority. We appreciate your support.”
If a student or teacher receives a confirmed positive COVID-19 test result, Interior Health does the following:
- It begins the process of contact tracing to determine how the person was infected and who they were in close contact with.
- It identifies and notifies close contacts who may be at an increased risk, and advises them to self-isolate and monitor for symptoms for 14 days.
It also works closely with the school and school district throughout the case and contact tracing process to maintain close communication with the school community.
IH public health determines close contacts of individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 using specific criteria, based on likelihood of transmission.
If you do not receive a phone call or letter from Interior Health, your child should continue to attend school. You can monitor your child for COVID-19 symptoms daily using the BC COVID-19 Health Assessment Tool.
There are no other cases reported at any other schools in the East Kootenay at this time.
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