COVID-19 and Schools

We are certainly living in interesting times with new coronavirus developments featuring relentlessly in all media outlets.  The announcement from the World Health Organisation declaring COVID-19 to be a pandemic has taken things to a new level across the globe.  We are very mindful of the effect that the current uncertainty may be having on some of our students and whanau and, as such, we are very much focusing on ensuring 'business as usual' here at school. 

Schools are continuing to receive regular updates from the Ministry of Education and the following information was shared with schools yesterday:

You may have seen that the World Health Organisation has now declared COVID-19 to be a pandemic. As noted by the Minister of Health, this does not change what New Zealand is doing to respond to coronavirus.

The Ministry of Health has been working through its pandemic plan since January. You will also know the Government has already implemented a range of measures to minimise the impacts to New Zealand. This includes border restrictions, a requirement to self-isolate on arrival in New Zealand from China, Iran, Italy and the Republic of Korea and immediate and detailed contact tracing of any confirmed cases. It is important to note those four countries account for more than 90% of cases globally and China and the Republic of Korea have significantly declining numbers of new cases.

We have 5 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand and it is pleasing to know they are all doing well and are at home. Their children, four students at Auckland schools, continue to be well and show no symptoms. While we expect that more cases will arise, the Ministry of Health says that with continued vigilance the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low in New Zealand. We all have a role to play in this. Hand washing and good cough etiquette are very important tools in preventing the spread of illness including colds, flu and COVID-19. With that, there is a good video clip from Nanogirl that can help children to better understand the virus - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPsY-jLqaXM

One other action we can all take is to be vigilant about our own health and the health of our children. Schools will be encouraging staff to stay away if they are showing signs of illness such as coughs and colds and we ask that parents please do the same with their children. Colds and flus are common in schools and by staying away, seeking medical attention and practicing good hygiene, we can all keep any spread of illness to a minimum.

In the current unusual situation it is important that we remain calm and support each other as the need arises.  If you have any particular concerns or questions please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Ngā mihi nui

Maree Stavert