Hilbert schools share Coronavirus advice

The Brillion News

HILBERT - The state Department of Public Instruction is not recommending that schools here take extraordinary measures to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus - also called COVID-19.

The viral disease, believed to have first manifest itself in China, has dominated national news headlines over the past few weeks and may have caused some fear or concern among parents, students, staff and school communities.

On Thursday, February 27, the Hilbert School District explained how it will be handling the concerns over COVID-19.

In a letter to the school community, Hilbert Superintendent Tony Sweere said: "At this time, the DPI and the [Centers for Disease Control] do not recommend that schools require students or staff to wear masks or gloves, cancel large gatherings, or cancel classes.  We will continue to monitor the situation locally and follow the direction that we receive from health services at the county, state and federal level," Sweere said.

Currently the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) reports that 16 people in Wisconsin have been tested for the virus and only one person has tested “positive” for the virus.  DHS has reported the “risk to the public is very low”. 

To stay updated on the testing for COVID-19 and test results in Wisconsin, the DHS has a website (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/) that is updated every weekday by 2 p.m. 

The Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has also posted guidance (https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/2019-novel-coronavirus) regarding preventing the spread of respiratory diseases such as COVID-19. 

The DPI, citing the CDC recommendation, suggests taking preventive actions including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

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

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 

Concerns about the Hilbert Schools' response to COVID-19 should be directed to Tony Sweere at sweeret@hilbertk12.org or 920-853-3558.