March 4, 2024
Dear RSU No. 67 families,
The US CDC issued this press release on March 1st, 2024 which updates the isolation guidelines for COVID-19.
The update highlights that when people get sick with a respiratory virus they should stay home and away from others. For people with COVID-19 and influenza, treatment is available and can lessen symptoms and lower the risk of severe illness. The recommendations suggest returning to normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, symptoms are improving overall, and if a fever is present, it has been gone without the use of a fever-reducing medication before returning to school.
This means that there is no longer a mandated 5-days of isolation or 10-days of masking. However, the CDC does continue to encourage masking for 5-days upon return to normal activities.
As part of the guidance, CDC provides active recommendations on core prevention steps and strategies:
Staying up to date with vaccination to protect people against serious illness, hospitalization, and death. This includes flu, COVID-19, and RSV (if eligible).
Practicing good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing hands often, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Taking steps for cleaner air, such as bringing in more fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors.
Please let us know if you have any questions or if you're in need of a home test in order to identify what kind of illness you are experiencing.
Sincerely,
Dr. Paul Austin, Superintendent
RSU 67
PO Box 69
25 Airport Road
Lincoln, ME 04457