SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — A Whitter Middle School student has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
That’s according to the Sioux Falls School District.
They say the S.D. Department of Health says there is no risk of transmission to staff or students.
Here’s the statement from the District:
We recently notified staff and families at Whittier Middle School that a student has tested positive for COVID-19. The Department of Health tells us there is no risk of transmission to other staff or students at the school due to the student’s last day of attendance at Whittier. Please see the attached letter.
Here’s the letter they sent to parents and staff:
Dear Staff, Parent or Guardian:
Out of an abundance of caution, we are writing to let you know that a student in your child’s school has tested positive for COVID-19. Please know we have been in communication with the South Dakota Department of Health regarding this information. They have assured us that, due to the student’s last day of attendance at Whittier, there is no risk that the virus could have been transmitted at school. The South Dakota Department of Health is doing their work to identify who is considered close contacts and will notify those who are considered close contacts.
According to the CDC, the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally presented with mild symptoms. Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported. More concerning signs and symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, shortness of breath. If you or your child experiences these symptoms, please reach out to your health care provider or the South Dakota Department of Health at 1-800-977-2880. If contacting your health care provider, please reach out by phone first. For up-to-date information related to COVID-19, please visit covid.sd.gov.
Please continue to use the following precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
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Practice social distancing.
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Stay home if you are ill.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
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Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
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Refraining from touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
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Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Sincerely,
Molly Satter RN, MSN
Health Services Supervisor/ District 504 Coordinator
Sioux Falls School District
Instructional Planning Center
