(Image and information taken from the BPS website found here)

The Buffalo Public School District is committed to providing families and staff with updates on COVID-19, commonly referred to as Coronavirus. At this time (3/2/20), it appears that a person or persons in New York City have tested positive for the virus, though the Center for Disease Control (CDC) asserts that the vast majority of Americans have a low risk of exposure.  Please use the links below for daily updates for the world, United States, New York State, and Erie County.

"This is a rapidly changing picture," said [Erie County Department of] Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein. "We are working on this every day, constantly, internally and with our partners, with health care providers and with the state." (Source Buffalo News 2/27/20.)

However, given recent announcements by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control that Coronavirus may spread - and that cases of influenza are regularly reported - we wanted to share some additional information about steps the school district is taking as well as steps you can take to help prevent the spread of viruses.

The BPS web page (buffaloschools.org) will be updated as new information or guidelines are provided by public health officials. Thank you for your support and partnership as we work together to maintain a healthy learning environment.

WHAT BPS IS DOING

BPS is in regular contact with the Erie County Public Health and the NYS Department of Public Health, and we follow guidelines and best practices from those entities and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) when it comes to responding to public health concerns, including Coronavirus and the flu.

BPS will continue to monitor the situation with county and state health officials. Should New York's status change, the district will turn to NYS and the CDC and follow any updated guidelines.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

There is something you can do. Review good hygiene with your family to help keep them safe. Examples of some routine, everyday preventive actions to lessen the spread of viruses include:

• If a student or staff member is sick, do not come to school.
• Cover your mouth with your upper arm or a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.