March 6, 2020
Dear Families,
NYA Spring Break is finally upon us! While there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 in Maine, the situation is constantly changing and the start of spring break means that many of us will be traveling. As we do, there are important steps we can all take to protect our own health and that of those around us. This will be particularly important as we return to campus after the break. Please continue to follow disease prevention guidelines recommended by the CDC. These include washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least twenty seconds—a practice identified as the single most effective way to prevent illness. If you are sick, seek medical attention and stay home until you feel well.
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Warning Level 3 travel advisories are in place for the following countries: China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea. A Level 2 travel advisory is currently in place for Japan. The list of CDC Warning Level countries may very well expand or change in the days ahead, and it is essential to pay close attention to CDC travel advisories. It is vitally important that you be aware if you will be staying in or passing through any of these countries currently listed or those added to the advisory. Based on the CDC recommendations, those who have traveled to specific identified areas may need to be quarantined for a length of time prior to being able to return to school.
Students, Faculty, and Staff — If you’re ill, please don’t return to school until you are better. This not only helps you, it also prevents the transmission of your illness to others, including populations in our community who may be at greater risk. If you are unable to return to campus, please be sure to notify NYA.
Many individuals at NYA are working to prepare for the distinct possibility that the COVID-19 virus arrives in our community. We recognize that this is a challenging moment globally. With the continued spread, concerns, and fears, this COVID-19 virus has affected many and our thoughts go out to them.
We will continue to monitor the situation and follow the guidance of the WHO and the CDC. Below are links to the sites for the most up to date information and travel recommendations:
https://www.who.int/
https://www.cdc.gov/
Have a wonderful spring break!
Sincerely,
Ashley Moody
Health Services Coordinator
