We know that many of you continue to have questions and concerns and we want to assure you that the health and safety of students and staff remains a top priority for everyone at the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). We are taking the COVID-19 very seriously and continue to work closely with our partners at York Region Public Health (YRPH) and the Ontario Ministry of Health to monitor and respond.
Risk in York Region
As of March 5, 2020, York Region Public Health is reporting six positive cases of COVID-19 in York Region. However, all six cases are travel-related and there continues to be no evidence of community spread in York Region. The risk to residents remains low.
As a result of the coordinated efforts of our healthcare and public health systems, the individuals who tested positive were quickly assessed and isolated. People not in close contact with these individuals are not considered at risk of becoming infected.
Precautions to prevent infection
Members of the public are advised to take the usual measures to reduce the risk of transmitting respiratory illness such as the flu and COVID-19, including:
- avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze – use a tissue or sneeze/cough into your sleeve
- avoid sharing personal items that come into contact with saliva such as toothbrushes, eating utensils, glasses/water bottles, and towels
- if you or your family members are ill, stay home; if symptoms get worse, call your doctor
We are enhancing cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as doors and handles. As well, YCDSB is testing out a new, stronger cleaner at a few of our schools. If this proves to be effective, we will roll it out at all our schools in the coming weeks.
At this time, the Ontario Chief Medical Officer of Health and York Region Public Health have advised that additional protocols at schools are not necessary and that risk to Ontarians remains low.
More information
For answers to commonly asked questions about COVID-19, please read these Health Canada FAQs.
If you have questions or concerns about your health or the health of your family, please contact your healthcare practitioner or York Region Public Health at 1.800.361.5653.
For up to date information, please visit these websites: